Wednesday, May 19, 2010

Dedicated Irish Chocolate-Maker Passes Away

I was listening to the Ray Darcy show on Today FM when I heard the sad news. Thomas Caffrey passed away earlier this week at the ripe old age of 92. Incidentally, both Harry and Eileen Gallagher, founders of Urney Chocolates, lived heartily to 95 and 89 respectively. Further evidence that chocolate is good for you.  The Caffrey family in Dublin run the oldest established Irish, family-owned, chocolate-making business. Now managed by a third generation of Caffreys, the company continues to make traditional confectionery that those of us of a certain vintage still crave. In the 50's Thomas Caffrey invented the infamous Chocolate Snowball - a gooey, soft centered, marshmallowy mass, encased in a milk chocolate shell and dusted with coconut.. MMMmmm....... Caffreys also created the equally popular Macaroon Bar and the Big Time Bar. Neville Caffrey, speaking on the radio, reminded listeners that "The Chocolate Warehouse" in Walkinstown is open for tours, where fans of the Caffrey range can stock up on their favourite products. Thomas Caffrey, we are forever grateful for your many years dedicated to the art of making chocolate, may you rest in peace.