Former county star and dad of one dies aged 46 after battle with cancer
The 46-year-old's condition emerged just after becoming a dad for the first time, as he and wife Karen had welcomed baby daughter Kaelan in March of last year
The O'Dwyers and Newtown Blues clubs have paid their respects to former Dublin goalkeeper Keith Gorman, affectionately known as 'Beezer', who sadly passed away last weekend. Despite receiving a diagnosis of pancreatic cancer last year, Gorman remained determined to battle the disease and underwent intensive treatment.
'Beezer' represented Dublin at under-21 level for two years and was part of the senior team that clinched the O'Byrne Cup in 1999 under Tommy Carr's leadership. This came shortly after the retirement of one of Dublin's most celebrated goalkeepers and fellow O'Dwyer's clubman, John O'Leary, although Davy Byrne continued as first choice until Stephen Cluxton's rise in 2001.
A benefit match was held in honour of the late Mr Gorman at Parnell Park last October, featuring several Dublin legends. Despite not securing major honours during a challenging period for the county team, he often spoke fondly of the significance of that O'Byrne Cup victory.
"That success was one of the highlights for me," he reflected. "I cherish that O'Byrne Cup medal. That year, Dublin also reached the National League final. I was on the panel. Unfortunately, we lost the final to Cork. It was played in Páirc Uí Chaoimh," reports the Irish Mirror.
He also acknowledged the impact that O'Leary, Dublin's All-Ireland winning captain in 1995, had on his career.
"John O'Leary was with O'Dwyer's, and he had a huge impact on me," he explained. "I idolised him. He was playing for Dublin, winning All-Irelands. I loved going to watch him playing for Dublin. He was one of the greatest goalkeepers of all.
"He brought goalkeeping to a very high level, and Stephen (Cluxton) carried it on again. It's all about improving and developing all the time. John has been a massive help to me over the years with my goalkeeping.
"But it's not only that. He has been so kind to me in recent times in particular. I can ring him at any time. His phone is always open to me.
"He always makes time for a chat, or go for a coffee," he told independent.ie..
The 46 year old's condition emerged just after becoming a dad for the first time, as he and wife Karen had welcomed baby daughter Kaelan in March of last year.
Speaking in August 2024, he revealed how he had shed 30kg and was suffering from back pain, which he initially put down to the physical demands of playing football, before getting the diagnosis he described as "devastating".
He found some comfort, though, in learning the condition could be treated, having recently lost his uncle to the same disease. "When the doctor said yes, I made my mind up, there and then, that I would fight this," he declared.
"No one knows how they'd react to being given such a diagnosis. It's a fight or flight situation and I'm determined to fight. I have to, for the sake of my two beautiful girls. They're my whole life."
He had settled down with Karen in Drogheda and became part of the Newtown Blues club, who praised him for facing his illness with "faced his illness with incredible courage, strength, and dignity".
"We are heartbroken to hear of the passing of our dear friend and clubman, Keith 'Beezer' Gorman," read a statement on the club's Facebook page.
"Keith was a Gael through and through – a proud husband to Karen, a devoted father to Kaelan, and above all, a truly genuine person who lit up every room he walked into. From the moment he joined our Blues family, Keith's easy smile, good humour and kind nature made him a friend to so many.
"He embraced our club and community with open arms, and in turn, we were lucky to call him one of our own.
"Keith faced his illness with incredible courage, strength, and dignity. His passing leaves a huge void in the lives of everyone who knew him, but his spirit, warmth, and the memories he leaves behind will live long in our hearts.
"On behalf of everyone at Newtown Blues, we extend our heartfelt condolences to Karen, Kaelan, and all of Keith's family and friends at this difficult time.
"Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílis."
O'Dwyer's described him as "an absolute gentleman and a true GAA legend", who "will always be fondly remembered in our club".
His funeral Mass will take place on Wednesday afternoon in Drogheda, followed by his burial.