Well-known Ballaghaderreen photographer Michael McCormack to be laid to rest today

WELL-known Ballaghaderreen photographer, Michael McCormack is to be laid to rest this afternoon (Tuesday). He passed away at the age of 59 and had been coping with an illness in recent times.

Mick, as he was known to many, was an outstanding photographer who covered numerous sporting, political and community events in the region over the years. He had a kind and humourous personality that endeared him to so many people.

Living in Ballaghaderreen where county loyalties are shared between Mayo and Roscommon, Mick penned his colours to the primrose and blue and was closely associated with Roscommon GAA over the years.

Valerie Murray, Ballyhaunis, who is secretary of Roscommon GAA, said: “Mick was such a lovely man and he will be missed by all who knew him. The GAA sideline won't be the same without him.”

Brian Nerney from Boyle reflected: “I had the utmost respect for Mick beginning from my time in the Roscommon Herald, with our friendship continuing since then. To his family I offer my sincere sympathy at this sad time.”

Mick was a great friend to many in the Mayo newspapers as well and was exceptionally helpful in providing photos from the Ballaghaderreen region and sporting occasions along the way.

Michael Duffy, editor of The Mayo News, said he learned of Mick’s passing with much sadness. “Mick was always just a phone call away. He had a friendly and warm nature and he was always there to help out when he could. We extend deepest condolences to his family from all here in The Mayo News.”

Mass of the Resurrection will be celebrated in St Nathy’s Cathedral, Ballaghaderreen, today (Wednesday) at 12 noon, followed by interment in Kilcolman Cemetery.

Michael, who was predeceased by his father Patrick (Pa), will be greatly missed by his mother Phyllis (Phyll), brother John, sister Maria Walsh (Renmore, Galway), nephew Rory, nieces Laura, Aoife, Michelle, Ciara, Niamh and Dearbhla, brother-in-law Gabriel, sister-in-law Patricia, cousins, relatives, neighbours and friends.