Martin P. O'Sullivan

Incredibly sad news to hear the passing of Martin. First met him in 1985 when The Smiths played in Dublin. He was such an engaging character that we hooked up quite a few times after. Great company and always a pleasure to sink a few with. A good lad gone far too soon.

Any time I every met Martin, I always left with a smile, a positive and great attitude to life. Very sorry to hear of his passing. May he rest in Peace.

Liam Kelly
Leopardstown Gardens

Sorry to hear about the loss of a great friend, he will be missed for his fun and kindness RIP my friend 🙏

It was great to reconnect with Martin during the pandemic after all those years. And seeing this now I'm really glad that I had the chance to rekindle our friendship. Martin was really helpful when I was going through my own health challenges. Condolences to Shelia, Adrienne, Garrett and his mom Joyce. They broke the mold when they made you Martin. One of life's great characters.

Deepest sympathy to Martins family and friends. His sudden death has come as a shock to all who new him and enjoy his company.

My very first memory of Martin was my brother Paul told me he meant this Dubliner transplant living in Boston in 1990 To say he made a "grand" impression on me/friend group (54/62 Eleanor Street) is an understatement. I have never laughed so loud with tears in the eyes from his story telling. The details, people, places and circumstances were something that Hollywood could certainly use.

Martin was my U2 brother. We would spend endless hours/late evenings talking the artistic merit of this north side scrappy band that would change the world with their music. As the band evolved with their sonic styles so did our relationship. One memory of this is the night we went to see Mike Peters of the Alarm at TT Bears (1997). Martin always told this story about him, Mike and Bono drinking at a pub called the Pink Elephant. Now here was the moment of truth or Bootsie fable. Talking to Mike after the show, he looks at Martin and says I remember you from the 80's at the Pink Elephant with Bono. Was this the luck of the Irish? No it was Martin O'Sullivan.

I am truly grateful to have meet you Martin and will always have a twinkle in my eye and heart when I reflect on our friendship.

Martin,
I still remember meeting you for the first time and just laughing constantly with your jokes! It was a pleasure to spend time with you here in Phoenix this last October.. you will be missed!! The gift of the coffee press will always remind me of you and morning coffee times.. Love sue Kendrick

Martin, we are all missing you so much. From back in the days we were young to recently getting to see you while we were in Florida. The time you flew into the keys and stayed with us and we enjoyed Key West during fantasy fest. The nights we would sit and video chat on the phone till the wee hours of the morning. My wife always knew it was you if I was chatting with someone at 4am. Recently it was sitting on your balcony at midnight NYE watching fireworks going off from all the beach towns around you simultaneously. This is the last pic I have of us together from just after Christmas. Another Martin moment, the other couple in the pic live in Lake Worth too, that was their first time meeting him, we hung out all day and into the night. Several day later I get this message that they were driving by the Irish Brigade and went in, They hung out all night, I got a pic from them. We all know there will never be another Bootsie

Martin was the most loyal person you could ever meet. He set the bar so high with regard to his devotion to his family & friends.
From Dublin to Boston to Sligo to Florida he was at home on the road & had the knack of making himself comfortable wherever he’d find himself.
I was blessed to have had The Smiths Dublin experience with him in the eighties at the concerts, backstage, traipsing through markets in search of bootleg cassettes of gigs. The Smiths knew and welcomed him; Martin carried the magic of their music through his whole life, again holding loyal to his loves.
Working in the corner store Cabot’s while studying in Boston he was a much celebrated Beacon Hill character. The store was his stage & the community his fellow cast members.
His excitements were diverse from drums to motorbikes to being out in the countryside with the dogs he so enjoyed along with his sister Adrienne.
I remember walking through the woods at his friend’s estate in Wicklow was pure joy to Martin, especially the bluebells.
His playful, often laid-back demeanour didn’t hide the brilliance of his curious and analytic mind.
Being a brother, uncle, son and friend was only the start of his value to the world.
To say that we’ll all miss him is a massive understatement we can be sure that he is sticking by us in his new form - he’d never let anything get in the way of being there for you. This is a comfort we can cling to as we play those Smiths songs along the highways of the world and talk and talk

Martin,

I'll always remember our times together. Whether they be the late Thursday nights turning to early Friday mornings when I would bid you (and usually Jay Buckley) farewell at the kitchen table as I left for a "productive" day at work or the times when you would call after returning to Boston for a surprise visit looking for a companion to have a pint or two at JJ Foley's. I would always join you when you called because I knew it would be worth the trouble.

I enjoyed the numerous concerts and shows, as well as your never-ending stories. They often seemed too unbelievable to be true but there was inevitable support indicating otherwise. Our trip to Ireland to Feile and the jaunt to Glasgow to see U2. I remember driving around Manchester looking for Johnny Marr's mother's house when we got stranded - thanks Billy Kendrick.

Aside from these memorable events, there were many smaller fleeting moments of laughter, love, and joy. I'll likely never have a pint again without thinking of you.

I'll miss your irreverent, devil-may-care approach to humor.

I'll miss you always, Bootsy.

Your pal,
Joe "Sugar Tush" Burke.

PS - I know that would make you smile

I have known Martin for about 40 years. The O'Sullivan family moved in 2 doors away when we were all kids. I was intimidated by him at first, he was a few years older and altogether quite a daunting figure with his loud American accent and big presence.

Over the years, Martin became one of our closest family friends. He always visited us when in the neighbourhood, and I will treasure the memories of our outrageous conversations and the laughs around the kitchen table, sometimes late into the night. I loved his brutal honesty, he was unfiltered in the best way; authentic, real and never a mean word out of his opinionated mouth. He was incredibly kind and supportive, often entering the house by throwing his hands in the air and shouting: OK what needs fixing around here? And he'd proceed to do it, expecting nothing in return, while he regaled with his stories to make us guffaw. His loss is immensely upsetting. He was the best kind of neighbour; a loyal and genuinely wonderful friend. As well as one of the funniest people I've ever known.

There will always be laughter when we remember you Martin. You were one of a kind. Our neighbourhood is poorer for your loss. It was an honour and a pleasure to know you. Go well, friend, you will remain always in our hearts xoxo

Sheila, my friend, we were so sad to hear about the sudden death of your brother Martin.A heartbreaking time for you all.Sending you and all your family our love ❤️

I am so sad to hear our friend Martin suddenly passed.
My condolences to family and friends.
I experienced Martin as such a social butterfly, always active in engaging with people surrounded.
Meeting up with Martin in Lake Worth was always a blast, keeping all these great memories.
Spending some music concert times together and closing with the lyrics of one of his favorites:
“Take me out tonight
Where there's music and there's people
And they're young and alive….”
I’ll catch you later my friend.

Deepest sympathies to the family & friends of Martin. We were shocked to hear of your passing. You were always very generous with your time and had a great understanding of all things technical. Many a time you rescued us at short notice and got our tech up and running again. There was never a dull moment when you were around- you were helpful, interesting and full of chat. Fond memories of the times we spent together with "the Boss" in the golden circle. May your kind & gentle soul rest in peace.

To Aunty Joyce,Sheila,Adrienne and Garrett so sorry to hear about the sudden passing of Martin.May he now rest in peace,but ive no doubt he will be too busy chatting with dad in heaven love Orna

We were so saddened to hear of Martins sudden passing and extend our deepest sympathy to his family.

Martin had a big spirit that poured out of him with spontaneous generosity. He had plans and goals for life while never forgetting to enjoy and appreciate every day.

The number of stories he had from his journeys; many can only dream of living that rich of a life.

The beauty of Martin was that you knew exactly where you stood with him and where the world stood. He spoke his mind, no apologies, take it or leave it. I will miss our conversations, his sense of humor and loved that even if we agreed to disagree, we could move on to another topic without missing a beat.

He was open, frank and had a GIANT HEART that went above and beyond, with a love for living life.

It still doesn’t seem real, but I’m so glad to have had the time I did. He taught me, life is short and not to care what others think. The world has so much to offer, and Martin knew that. You will be missed.

RIP dear friend, forever in our hearts. We hope you’re creating mischief and fun upstairs.

MaBelle & Zygi

Sheila, Adrienne and Garrett, lost for words taken way too young. Our thoughts and prayers are with each of you, Joyce, Brian and our grandchildren. Rest in Peace, Martin

Adrienne , Sheila and Garret. i’m
so very sorry to hear of Martin’s passing !
You are in my heart and daily prayers!!!
He was taken way too soon !
I hope all the good times you had with him can be a source of comfort .My heart breaks for you !

I truly looked forward to when he came to visit us at 42 Thompson .We had great talks. He was an excellent conversationalist! My Mum and Dad enjoyed talking to him as well !
He was intelligent , well informed and entertaining.
He also had the best taste in music !!! He educated me on early U2 and I have been a fan ever since. He went to a video taping for the band Aerosmith with me and convinced me to sneak backstage with him
and meet the band ! it was so fun!
he had no fear of the big burly bouncers trying to prevent us from
going backstage !
He was the best prom date ever !
he was a true gentleman. He looked very handsome in his tux, got along splendly with with my friends and had the famous O’Sullivan beautiful blue eyes! Martin i will miss you!

Hi Martin,

I can't believe I writing this note to you. Although this note is written with sadness my memories of our time spent together brings me nothing but joy and laughter.

To say you have given us some much life - is an understatement. Your vivid storytelling and dramatic delivery is stuff of legend. You either had us on the edge of our seats in suspense or in tears laughing - or both. You were a true Irish raconteur.

I'll never forget when we first met at JJ Foley's in Boston in the spring of 1990. I was set to travel to Ireland and we immediately hit it off. Over pints you were so generous with helping me with contacts, directions and tips on how best enjoy my trip. Upon my return you soon came down to the Irish Club in Chelsea while I was bartending and was soon a very welcomed addition to the great crew of guys - and gals - that all hung-out together throughout the 90s in Boston.

Martin, when we met was the perfect time in my life to meet you and enjoy your friendship. You were so loyal and always there when I needed hand, a laugh, or simply someone to hang-out with - and you made some great friends along the way.

I cherished the memories of the nights we closed JJ Foleys or the Irish Club and continued the reveling at "54" or "62" Eleanor street in Chelsea until the sun came up.

Thank you for your laughter, your stories, your loyalty and your friendship.

God speed,

-Paul

So saddened to hear of Martins sudden death. Sincere sympathy to his mother, sisters and brother.
Special sincere sympathy to you Larry as many times we met both yourself and
Martin who had been our neighbours for many years close to Anngh Bridge/Lough Arrow for a chat. Shared many chats with ye both at our lovely local pub McDonaghs in Heapstown on many social occasions.

I am truly saddened at the loss of Martin. He was a true friend and will live on in my heart and mind forever. I am certain his name and his stories will come up often when I gather with our shared friends. The friends that molded who I became. I'll raise a pint (or maybe more) in Martin's honor. I'll smile when I think of the unbelievable yet somehow true stories he shared. I'll miss having him call on short notice to meet him at JJ's for a pint.

Slainte, Bootsy.

Sincere sympathy to the O'Sullivan famiy, and Larry, on the sad passing of Martin. May he rest in peace.

Condolences to the O Sullivan family on the sudden passing of Martin may he rest in peace 🙏

Condolences to the O Sullivan family, Larry and all Martins friends. May he rest in peace. Michael,Karina and girls. Sheerevagh Castlebaldwin

Our sincere sympathy to the O Sullivan Family on Martin sudden passing
may he rest in peace

My deepest sympathy to the family and friends of Martin. It was a shock to me when I learned that Martin suddenly passed away. I will always remember him as a dear friend, we had the chance to spend very good times in Florida together. May he rest in peace.

My condolences to all the family and friends of Martin. May he rest in peace.

He was a brother. JJ Foleys was our chapel. Martin loved to tell a story. The stories were of legends. I never knew where the truth started and ended. Embellished along the way from years of storytelling, we knew. There are too many shows to remember where and when. I will remember Feile 93 and backstage with Madness. Delores and her kindness having the #1 song at the time. Cranberries were so good.
Shane McGowan passed recently and we all talked/texted about late night at Lillies Bordello. Trying to remember the to go order. Legendary.
I can write a book about Martin. He was a great friend. Larry Mullins seats in Glasgow, then running for the train. He always was the spark that led to the fun.
God bless the family and wish them peace. We were all blessed to have him for a short time.

I was truly saddened when I heard the news about Martin's passing. Two years ago, when my beloved husband passed away in Boston, somehow he had heard the news before nearly everyone else and called me right away. His friend, David, let him know because he knew Martin was actually in Boston! He "cleaned up nicel," and appeared at the funeral--and held court with with his gift of gab for sure! Resting in peace on the "other side" won't suit him. He'll be be busy livening up things there.!

Many trips to Sligo and West Ireland 🇮🇪 the last couple of years meeting great people, especially the Irish farmers ,having the opportunity and privilege to spend some of that time with the friends of Martin.. a true privilege that will be greatly missed and appreciated… 2 pints 🍻Martin and some fish and chips in the north..

Dear Joyce, Sheila. Adrienne and Garrett,

You are in my thoughts and prayers since you got the tragic news last week of Martin's passing.

What a character, full of chat and curiosity.
Thank God that dividing wall did not talk because Joyce and I would have been permanently in a state of panic. As they say what you don't know won't harm you.

I am sure Martin is holding court somewhere over the rainbow.

Rest in peace Martin.

Enjoy this next stint, my dear friend. I'll truly miss the last 20 odd years of:
1. MotoGP;
2. ORW Politics;
3. Limp Bizkit;
4. Glock & IPSIC;
5. The Wire; and,
6. That which is just DS unsuitable for this forum, yet defined the great laughs that we continually shared!!
And, all discussed in the very unacceptable ways that only we could.
I always felt the love from you, Dags!!

Dear Sheila, Adrienne and Garrett, our deepest condolences and sympathy go out to you at this terrible time… it’s heartbreaking and difficult to believe that Martin had been taken from you so early and so suddenly..
back in the 1970’s when a removal van accompanied by an exotic Cadillac ( or some other large American car) rolled onto Leopardstown Lawn, we were so curious about our new Neighbours! You O’Sullivans didn’t disappoint … Martin was a tour de force from day 1… gregarious and full of chat.. interested in everyone and always ready for a discussion or a debate .. his passion for music could be heard well into the night ! The passage of time is beyond our control, but sad times like this show us how precious all the memories are.. Thinking of you all and a special heartfelt hug to Joyce.. May Martin Rest In Peace ❤️

Martin will be sadly missed by all of his friends in Ballyrush and it's hinterland. He was an expert on any mobile phone or computer problems and most obliging to anyone who called on him. A true and loyal friend.

My deepest, loving sympathy to Joyce, my friend for over seventy years, Sheila, Adrienne and Garrett on the sudden, tragic loss of their beloved Martin. May the Lord grant him a ‘safe lodging, a holy rest and peace at last’.
Anne Whelehan.

Sheila, Brian, Dylan, Julia,Olivia and all the O’Sullivan family. We were so sad to hear of your beloved brother and uncle passing away. By all accounts he was a great and much loved character. We’re thinking of you at this sad time. Take care x

Our sincere condolences to Joyce, Sheila, Adrienne, Garrett and the extended family on the sudden passing of Martin, such shocking news and we send positive thoughts and strength to you all at this time.

Many fond memories of the chats across the wall/hedge/fence between number 2 and 3. No doubt Martin is holding court somewhere now with a superb soundtrack. Go néirí an bothar leat.

Our sincere condolences to Joyce, Sheila, Adrienne, Garrett, and extended family on the sudden passing of Martin.
Many fond memories of the chats across the wall, fence, hedge between number 2 and number 3. Martin was always up for the banter and no doubt he is still holding court somewhere with a fantastic soundtrack. Go néirí an bothar leat.

Dear Adrienne, Sheila and Garrett,
My deepest sympathy to you and Joyce at your heartbreaking loss of Martin.
Lasting memories of him as our neighbour in Leopardstown and all through the years. He loved to share the chat and laughter and was always hugely excited about music and current affairs and politics and animals and general banter. At times when I was cutting the grass he would suggest better ways of approaching the job!
Thinking of you all.
Martin rest in peace and make new friends uo above.

Siobhán Carolan, Dun Laoghaire, Co Dublin

Our deepest sympathy to Martin's family and friends. Such a sad loss to everyone. Martin was a loyal and helpful friend, always ready to help whenever he could. We never knew when he’d show up again, but when he breezed in between his trips, he was always an entertaining whirlwind with his stories, his ability to take on any role and accent of the main characters in them, and his comedic talent brought tears of laughter to our eyes.
He loved animals and nature. For many years he shared minding Jessie and Miller, Adrienne’s dogs, bringing them for visits to Lough Arrow and enjoying their antics and individuality when they were young, and caring for them tenderly when they became old and frail.
The wildlife around Lough Arrow was a constant wonderment and source of entertainment for him.
Occasionally, we saw another, more private side in him when he talked lovingly about his young nieces and nephews or when he sat down on the ground and played with a litter of our puppies, showing a tender and calmer, more content side of his personality.
We miss you so much Martin. Rest in Peace.

Ika and Ulli and your canine admirers Jimmy, Betty, BB and Gizmo

We are very sorry to hear the sad news of Martin's sudden death.
Our deepest sympathy to his mother, sisters, brother and extended family. Our condolences also to Larry and his many friends.
Martin was a legend, ever ready for an enthusiastic debate, always with a kind aspect.
Rest in peace Martin, you will be missed.

Mary, Conor & Gráinne McDonagh,
The Bow & Arrow, Lough Arrow, Co. Sligo

So shocked to hear of Martins passing. Many a hearty debate and laughter we had with him in the kitchen in my dads house ..Josie Gray. He was a larger than life character! RIP Martin.

Rest in peace Martin… you certainly brought life to Sunday nights in the ‘Magic Carpet’… And on the golf course … Gone way too soon..

So sorry to read of Martin's passing, he was as described and one of life's great characters.

I knew him mainly from the Magic Carpet pub in Cornelscourt, where he would entertain us all with his latest escapades. Martin was somewhat of a legend as he turned up at a golf outing one day with a set of golf clubs that were half left handed and half right handed. He proceeded to play alternate shots with either hand to prove a point..... needless to say he did not break any course records (unless you count lost balls!), but we had a great laugh on and off the course. That was Martin, up for anything and never boring.

Rest in peace Martin and thanks for the happy memories.

Very sad news indeed. Sincere condolences to all the family. He certainly lived his life to the full.

Very sorry to read of Martin’s untimely passing. Our thoughts are with you all, his family and good friends.. thinking of all at this difficult time…
Rest in Peace Martin …

Goodbye my dear friend. Never a dull moment around you and I loved that you treated kings and paupers with the same kindness and irreverence at the same time. Rest in peace my friend.

My condolece to all the family. A very sad loss.

To Sheila, Adrienne, Gareth and Mrs O’Sullivan; our deepest and sincere condolences on the passing of Martin, which came too soon.

Our thoughts and prayers are with you all on a daily basis as you try to come to terms with his loss xxx

Sorry to hear of Martin's death our sincere sympathy is sent to Martin's Family and friends especially Larry.
May you rest in peace Martin.

So very sorry to hear this tragic news Sheila. Lots of great memories of Martin, particularly from our days in NIHE and Boston. I’m sure he is already regaling some new pals “upstairs” with lots of great stories. May he rest in peace.