Joseph (Jock) McEvoy

Joseph (Jock )McEvoy

(1924 -2009)

The sudden passing of Joseph (Jock) McEvoy in August has left a void in the Institution and a sadness among his many peers. He was one of those brilliant war time students who on graduating, contributed greatly throughout their careers to the well-being of this country which was then recovering from "The Emergency".

A scholarship winner to UCD he graduated in second place in the final degree (for Mech and Elec), and was offered a trainee course with ASEA (now ABB) in Sweden. His fluency in Irish helped him adapt to the language of that country from where he later returned to work on the Erne Hydroelectric Scheme.

Subsequently ASEA set up a Dublin office with Jock as its manager. From his Dublin office he helped develop the electrical plant for the early peat generating stations, the expanding HV network and the large electric motors of many of Ireland's new industries. He retained his affinity with Sweden and was a long time member and chairman of the Irish Scandinavian Club.

He was an accomplished pianist, socially very popular and always ready to help and organise He remained an avid student all his life, sharing his updated knowledge with others in lectures to the Electrical Division, the Heritage Society and An Roth. He served on the Council of IEI and on its committees. He was a highly respected and diligent chairman, never sparing in his time and always dependable. Certainly his contribution to his profession over half a century had few peers, which was recognized by his election to Fellowship of the Irish Academy of Engineering. His love of learning was an inspiration to all who knew him and particularly to his sons who also followed technical careers.

We extend our sympathy to his wife Maeve and to his sons Darach and Finbar in their loss.

Ar dheis Dé go raibh a hanam dilis.

Risteárd O’Cólmáin

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