RIP: Memories shared as cornerstone of Mayo community laid to rest

SEÁN Burke, Drum, Knock, Mayo, who died in the kind care of the staff at the Claremount Nursing Home, Claremorris, was a member of a well known and highly regarded family in Knock.

He was a kind and good natured gentleman who was closely associated with Knock Shrine down through the years.

Seán served as head gardener at the Shrine for many years and had an instinctive knowledge of
matters relating to that scene.

He took a gentle pride in seeing nature manifest itself in all its glory and added so much to the peaceful and tranquil setting that is the grounds of Knock Shrine.

During his long years of devotion and service, Seán made many friends from all around the country and especially those who came on the regular Diocesan Pilgrimages to Knock.

His easy manner and kind nature endeared him to so many and he made time for everyone.

Seán had a deep appreciation of the story of Knock and the place it had in the hearts of so many people who visit the place every year.

Chatting to pilgrims and visitors came natural to him and he enjoyed sharing conversations and hearing stories from counties all over the island.

Fr Tony from Crumlin, Dublin, was among those who joined in the warm tributes to Sean: “What a great legacy he leaves!

"Undoubtedly, his life was underpinned by his Christian faith and prayer and having served his parish community of Knock with dedication and fidelity, it was fitting that his funeral Mass was celebrated in a place dear to his heart. Our Blessed Lady, pray for him and his family.”

Sr Catherina from St Louis, Monaghan, reflected: “Seán was such a nice friendly man whom I met many times on my visits to Knock.

We often walked together to attend the early morning Mass in the Carmelite Monastery in Knock. He will be missed in Knock.”

Seán was a good and kind neighbour who loved Knock and its people and the community extends
condolences to the Burke family at this sad time.

Reposing was at the Marian Funeral Home with removal to Knock Parish Church. Interment took place in the local cemetery following Requiem Mass celebrated by Fr Richard Gibbons, PP.

Seán, who was predeceased by his wife Mary (nee Flatley), parents John and Nora, his brothers Toby,
Mick, Paddy and his sister Kathleen, will be deeply missed by his daughters Cathy, Breda, Ursula and
Louise, his son Sean, grandchildren Omar, Sabrina, Sarah, Tom, Fintan, Sean and Cian, nieces and
nephew, Mary, Angela and John Burke, relatives and friends.