64 ELECTRIC.IE • The Magazine & Website for the Irish Electrical Industry • Reg Farrell 1936 - 2024 Reg Farrell, the esteemed founder of RFE in Dublin, passed away on 26th January in his 88th year. His demise marks the end of an era for the electrical distribution community in Ireland, as well as for those who knew him personally and professionally. In 1981, Reg Farrell founded RFE, a company that would become synonymous with excellence, innovation, and reliability in the electrical industry. Under his visionary leadership, the company ourished, earning a reputation for delivering high-quality products and solutions. Beyond his professional achievements, Reg Farrell will be remembered for his warmth, generosity, and unwavering Obituary integrity. He was not only a respected colleague and mentor but also a beloved friend and family member. His kindness touched the lives of all who had the privilege of knowing him, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of many. Reg Farrell leaves behind a legacy that will continue to inspire and in uence his staff at RFE. While his presence will be deeply missed, his spirit will live on through the countless lives he has touched and the enduring impact of his work ethics. In honouring the memory of Reg Farrell, let us celebrate his remarkable life, his extraordinary contributions to the electrical distribution industry, and the profound legacy he leaves behind. He may have left this world, but his legacy will endure as a testament to the power of passion, perseverance, and dedication. Ian Checkley Dick Bowen 1940 - 2024 Richard (Dick) Bowen passed away peacefully on February 1st, 2024, surrounded by his family. Born in the United States in 1940, Dick served in the US Army during the early sixties, specialising in codes and signals while stationed in Germany. After his discharge from the military service and on his way back to the U.S., Dick stopped off in Ireland to visit his sister who was studying in UCD. While travelling around Ireland he met my mother Eileen in Killarney and decided to stay for a little while longer!! In the late 60’s he began his career at Avonmore Electrical in Millstreet, Co Cork. In the 1970's, he relocated to Dublin and worked for O'Neills Electrical before establishing his own business, Bowen Electrical Wholesalers Ltd, in 1977. Initially operating from his residence in Goatstown, Dick's business expanded to premises in Georges Avenue and later to Main Street, Blackrock, before settling in its current location in Brook eld Terrace, Blackrock. Dick's unwavering commitment to quality was the cornerstone of his business philosophy. One memorable tale perfectly illustrates his no-nonsense style: when a sales rep touted a "vandal-proof" light tting, Dick put it to the ultimate test by giving it a crash landing, proving its fragility and sending the rep packing. Dick's straightforward and practical approach left an indelible impression on all who witnessed it. In addition to his wholesale business, Dick dedicated time to manufacturing electrical control and distribution panels. He was widely respected and beloved within the electrical industry and his good humour, expertise and integrity left a mark on everyone. Dick is survived by his wife Eileen, 8 children and 21 grand-kids and will be dearly missed by all. Michael Bowen
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy Mzk5MjA=