In Memoriam: Noel Kane

Jan 26, 2024

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of our esteemed former Chairperson, Director, Colleague and Friend, Noel Kane, BE, DipCompEng, EurIng, CEng, FIEI, FIStructE, MIEAust, MACI, RConsEI. Noel's legacy is marked by his significant contributions to GARLAND, spanning over four decades.

A distinguished graduate of University College Dublin in 1965 with a Bachelor of Civil Engineering, Noel furthered his education with a Diploma in Computer Engineering from Trinity College in 1973. His illustrious career as a Chartered Engineer extended across Ireland, the U.K., and Australia, where he earned accolades as a Fellow of the Institution of Engineers of Ireland and the Institution of Structural Engineers, along with Chartered Membership in the Institution of Engineers of Australia.

Noel's tenure at GARLAND, spanning over 40 years, saw him as a Director from 1988 until 2004, and he assumed the role of Chairperson from 2002 to 2019, becoming the 5th person to hold this esteemed position.

His engineering expertise, honed over five decades, touched projects worldwide, showcasing proficiency in seismic and cyclonic structural design during his six-year stint as a design engineer in Western Australia. Noel's influence was pivotal in overseeing the construction of numerous large-scale international projects, as well as his impactful role as project director for various hospital developments in Ireland, notably Tallaght Hospital, completed in 1998.  Noel's extensive industrial experience is noteworthy, particularly in collaboration with RKD Architects. Together, they successfully delivered projects for esteemed clients, including Donnelly Mirrors in Naas, Burlington Industries in Gilloge, Tralee, Longford, and Tullamore. Notable contributions also extended to projects for Polaroid in Newbridge and Saehan Media in Sligo. 

Noel's profound knowledge of concrete led him to spearhead the repair and refurbishment of iconic structures such as the award winning Custom House Plaza and the construction of Goldsmith House in Dublin. In his later career, he specialized in evaluating and managing substantial property portfolios for pension funds and financial institutions.

Noel was a revered authority in reinforced concrete, prestressed concrete, and masonry design, contributing significantly to standard developments in Ireland with the NSAI. He chaired the Eurocode 6 (Masonry) Panel and served on the Concrete Durability Committee, delving into the impact of new developments on Concrete Codes. His involvement with the Department of the Environment, Community, and Local Government Expert Panel on Concrete Blocks further highlighted his dedication to industry advancements and understanding. 

In 2002, Noel took the helm as the president of the Association of Consulting Engineers of Ireland (ACEI), demonstrating unwavering passion for the industry's growth. He was committed to nurturing the next generation of engineers, he actively participated in ACEI award panels, particularly the young engineer award, and took joy in witnessing the industry's promising future.

Noel Kane's legacy endures as a testament to his remarkable contributions, inspiring countless engineers and leaving an indelible mark on the fields of structural and civil engineering. He will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing and working with him. May he rest in peace.

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