The late Michael Reidy made major contribution to life in Mayo

Michael Reidy, Brookhill, Claremorris, who played a central role in so many aspects of the community life of Claremorris, over the decades, died peacefully at his home last Friday.

Michael, who was in his early 90s, was much in demand over the years for his Consulting Engineers business that operated from Main Street. He was a cherished advisor to so many groups and organisations in Claremorris when it came to planning and related matters.

He was legendary for his attention to detail and an imprimatur from Michael carried the utmost respect. He worked quietly behind the scenes in various organisations ranging from Claremorris Show Committee to Claremorris Drama Festival and took a keen interest in sport, especially GAA.

Michael was very much at the heart of Claremorris Town Hall all down the years. He attended the first meeting back in 1962 that was called with a view to building a Town Hall. That took place in the old Boys National School and was elected a member of the fund raising committee.

For 40 years from 1974 to 2014, Michael was secretary of the Town Hall Committee. At the gathering to honour Michael on his retirement, Colmán O’Raghallaigh paid tribute to Michael’s amazing dedication to the Town Hall over such a long period. He presented him with a framed copy of the first St Colman’s team to win the Flanagan Cup back in 1949 of which Michael was a member.

Michael compiled two booklets that found favour with readers in the area. One was ‘Claremorris in Retrospection’ and another called ‘The River Robe’ which was close to his heart.

Reposing was at the family home in Brookhill last Sunday with removal from to St Colman’s Church on Monday. Fr Peter Gannon, PP, celebrated the Mass at 2pm and this was followed by interment in St Colman’s cemetery.

Michael, who was predeceased by his wife Carmel, will be sadly missed by his sons Declan, Bryan, Kieran and Ronan, daughters Adrianne, Anne and Gráinne, daughters-in-law Gail, Michelle, Suzanne and Rose, son-in-law Ian, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.