Mikie can rest in peace now with life’s work well done
When the wheel of life runs out and peace comes over me, Just take me back to that old town, between the hills and sea, I’ll take my sleep in those green fields, the place my life began
For many in South Kerry, the words of Sigerson Clifford’s ‘Boys of Barr na Sraide’ hold a special significance. For those who knew Michael Sugrue, the lines will bring back happy memories of his soothing rendition of one of his favourite songs.
Michael, better known as Mikie, passed away peacefully at the dawn of the day on Saturday March 7 in St Anne’s Hospital Cahirsiveen, surrounded by his family. Following a debilitating stroke last September, Mikie was being cared for by the exceptional staff in the hospital, close to his home in Meeliguleen.
Born in 1937 to John and Julia, Mikie grew up in Meeliguleen, on a humble farm over-looking Ballinskelligs Bay. With his brothers Sean (who died in 1964), Jimmy and Donal, and his sister Maureen, he learnt the value of hard work and making the most of the land and sea from a young age. If he was not out on the boat salmon fishing with his father and brothers, he would be ready to collect the haul, and take the trip by horse and cart to the sell the fish in Renard. Growing up in a close-knit community, where neighbours frequently pitched in together, Mikie could be depended on to be on hand to help out with anything.
Like many others at the time, Mikie moved to London for work in ’60s. While living in England, he worked as a builder with his brother Donal. Within the thriving Irish community at the time, he made a number of lifelong friends. In October 1965 he married his soulmate, Eileen Coffey, who lived just a few miles away in Emlagh. They spent five happy decades together.
Having started a family in England, Mikie and Eileen returned to Meeliguleen to take over the running of the farm. It was at this time that he started working with Kerry County Council, where he earned a reputation as a perfectionist and as a hard worker with a generous spirit.
As he was taught by his own parents, Mikie made the most of the land and continued to be an integral part of the community. He would set his vegetable garden as early as he could in the year so that he would be able to harvest the earliest crop of potatoes in June, a tradition that he kept up right until last year. The garden was testament to his levels of perfection, with straight ridges that were kept in pristine condition throughout the summer. He was also keen to have his turf saved and brought home as early as possible.
He involved the whole family in these pursuits, but it was fishing that held a special place in his heart. It was not uncommon to see Mikie out working lobster pots at the break of dawn with one or two of his children, and line fishing for mackerel towards dusk.
Along with his passion for the farm, Mikie had a keen interest in football, especially in following the Kerry team throughout their All-Ireland endeavours. He loved to talk about the golden years of Kerry football, and the achievements of the four-in-arow winning side.
During his later years, Mikie’s eight grandchildren Katie, Liam, Sean, Ryan, Louise, Senan, Bláithín and Blaize brought much joy to his life.
Mikie is survived by his wife Eileen, daughters Susan and Julie, and his sons Derek, Michael, James and Anthony. He will be remembered as a true gentleman a caring husband, father, grandfather and brother and a friend to many.
Mikie was a great loss to the community in Ballinskelligs, and his neighbours will miss seeing him walking along the old road.
Eileen and the family would like to thank the huge amount of people who turned up to pay their respects at the wake and funeral. The weather on the day of the funeral was perfect, with Ballinskelligs looking its best - a calm sea out at the bay and a clear sky as the community said goodbye to a great man.
Mikie’s Months Mind will be held in St Michael’s Church, Dungeagan at 11am on Saturday, April 25.
Rest in peace now Mikie, your work is done.