RIP: Former Mayo Garda remembered for service after passing

He was part of a fine community of An Garda Siochana that served Claremorris and hinterland in a very special way over the decades and who made their homes in the area and became such an integral part of the town and district

They got to know the local people on first name terms and the people of the area got to know them so well too. Michael was blessed with a quiet, unassuming and serene nature and he was a fine ambassador for his chosen profession.

He was a solid man and people always knew they could trust Michael in such a special way. He made time to talk to neighbours and friends and it was easy to feel relaxed and at home in his company.

Though 60 years in Mayo, he still retained a special fondness for his lovely county of Sligo and remained so close to his family roots in Curry.

Many warm and genuine tributes have been paid to Michael since his passing. Tony Marren, now residing in Carraroe, Sligo, and formerly of Tourlestrane, who served as a guard in Claremorris for a few years, said: “I have wonderful memories of the time we worked together in Claremorris many years ago where I experienced at first hand his caring nature for all his colleagues and his willingness to only see the good in everybody.

“Mike was a true gentleman in every sense of the word with a trait of generosity, kindness and respect for everyone. He will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved him.”

Charlestown native, John Duffy, also a retired member of An Garda Siochana who served in Dublin for many years, commented: “I have known Michael for many years, both in service and in retirement. He was a true gentleman and will be sorely missed by his family and many friends.”

Tom and Carmel Neary, Balla Road, Claremorris, said: “It is with great sadness that we have heard of the passing of Michael McVann, our long-time neighbour. Michael spent his life as a member of Ireland’s police force, serving and protecting the public and that must be a source of satisfaction for the entire family.”

His daughter, Patricia, speaking on behalf of the family at the funeral Mass, told the congregation how her father had retained such a fondness for his home county of Sligo down the years. “He had a great love for traditional Irish music and he played the fiddle right up to the end. His fourteen grandchildren meant the world to him and he adored them.”

Among the items brought to the altar representing the central parts of Michael’s life were a rosary beads, a family photograph and his Garda cap. His grandson, Ethan, said the rosary beads reflected his quiet, steady and unshakable faith that was a constant comfort to him to the very end.

Fr Peter Gannon said Michael was a true community man in all the areas he served as a guard. “He was a man of principles and values, of faith and loyalty. He presented himself so neatly at all times. The family home was an open door with a warm welcome and hospitality. This church was so much a part of his journey through life.”

Reposing was in Gilligan’s Funeral Home and Mass was celebrated by Fr Peter Gannon, PP, along with Fr Michael Reilly from Knockmore Parish, in St Colman’s Church with interment afterwards in Claremorris cemetery.

Michael, who was predeceased by his brothers Jim and Paddy and his sisters Mary (McCarrick) and Sr Olive, will be sadly missed by his wife Teresa and their family, Oliver, Maura, Patricia, Micheál and Adrian, daughters-in-law Anita, Olivia and Sarah, sons-in-law Alan Laing and Martin Brady, grandchildren, in-laws, nieces, nephews and a wide circle of friends.