Richard Quirke

Remembering Richard Quirke: The Man Behind the Arcade Magic!

Join us as we celebrate the life of Richard Quirke, the beloved arcade owner whose joy was only matched by his generosity!

Dublin's vibrant O'Connell Street has always been a hub of laughter and excitement, and in the heart of it all was Richard Quirke, the beloved owner of Dr Quirkey's Good Time Emporium. At 77, Richard left behind a legacy filled with gaming joy, colourful memories, and a business that has entertained countless visitors over the decades. His family fondly remembers him as a man ‘mad as a brush’—a delightful nod to his larger-than-life spirit that had the uncanny ability to light up a room.

Richard was more than just an arcade owner; he was also a former garda, reflecting a life dedicated to serving the community. At his recent funeral, stars like Chris de Burgh and tenor Paul Byrom stood side by side with dignitaries, including TD Michael Lowry, to honour this remarkable gentleman. Mourners gathered to share stories of his hard work and boundless generosity, traits that defined not only his business practices but also his relationships with friends and family. As they shared laughter amidst the tears, the essence of Richard's character shone through: he was someone who embraced life with joy.

Among those paying tribute was his daughter-in-law, Rosanna Davison, who bravely navigated her grief while caring for her young children. Watching the funeral online, Rosanna spoke of Richard as a peaceful spirit, reflecting on the love and support he gave to his family. Her heartfelt message resonated with many, offering a glimpse into the depth of loss they felt. It’s never easy to say goodbye to a loved one, especially when they have left both an emotional and tangible void in one’s life.

Richard's life has been celebrated not just for his entrepreneurial achievements, but also for the connections he forged in the community. He showed that it’s possible to live a life filled with joy while touching the lives of others. Speaking of joy, did you know that Dublin's Dr Quirkey’s Good Time Emporium was a pioneer in arcade games, introducing classics that shaped gaming culture? Furthermore, Richard's adventurous spirit extended beyond business as he ensured that the enchanting world of arcades was not just about games, but about creating memories for generations!