Tributes flow after passing of auctioneer Michael O’Leary
COUNTY WEXFORD was deeply saddened to say farewell to one of its well-known faces on Sunday as news broke of the passing of Michael O’Leary of Garryvadden, Blackwater.
Extremely well-known in his role as an auctioneer, working from his Sherry Fitzgerald O’Leary Kinsella office on Slaney Street in Enniscorthy, Michael had been battling with illness for some time, but something which remained constant throughout was his overwhelming sense of positivity.
However, he finally lost his battle on Sunday morning, much to the devastation of his heartbroken family and a large circle of friends and colleagues around the county.
As well as being an auctioneer of some repute, having served as President of the Institute of Professional Auctioneers and Valuers, Michael took a very active role in Enniscorthy life and was constantly involved in community life and the town’s festivals and events. He was Deputy President of Enniscorthy & District Chamber of Commerce, who are reeling from the loss of a colleague and a dedicated worker.
Chamber President Maree Lyng described Mr O’Leary as ‘one of the town’s best-known businessmen’ and ‘one of coun- ty Wexford’s most prominent auctioneers’.
‘Michael contributed significantly to community life in Enniscorthy,’ she said. ‘At the same time, he was involved in every facet of the town’s social life. He will be sadly missed by those whose lives he touched for the better in so many different ways.’
‘His passing creates a void that Enniscorthy and County Wexford can ill afford,’ she concluded, noting her colleagues significant contributions.
Among the tributes paid to Mr O’Leary since his passing was an impeccably observed minute’s silence at Wexford park ahead of the model county’s league showdown with All-Ireland Champs Limerick.
Michael passed away surrounded by his loving family on Sunday morning. He will be sadly missed and always remembered by his beloved wife Mary; sons Rodí and Declan; daughter Lisa; brothers Bobby and Eamonn; son-in-law Larry; daughters-in-law Sue, Mag and Mary; his nine loving grandchildren; aunts, brothers-in-law; sisters-in-law; nephews, nieces, relatives, neighbours and his many friends.
Michael’s remains will arrive at St Brigid’s Church, Blackwater, today (Tuesday) for reception prayers at 7.30 p.m. Funeral Mass takes place on Wednesday at 11 a.m. followed by interment in the adjoining cemetery. House private. Family flowers only. Donations if desired to Wexford Hospice Homecare.