The Late Michael Fleming

Representatives from numerous organisations attended Muckross man Michael Fleming's funeral as he was laid to rest at the New Cemetery in Killarney.

Mr Fleming, from Scartela, Muckross was deeply mourned by the Killarney Valley and East Kerry communities where his contribution as Community Welfare Officer with the Health Board and as a member of voluntary organisations will always be remembered.

Mr Fleming was married to Eileen and the couple have two children Garry and Breda. As a student in St Brendans College in Killarney, Mr Fleming was a regular player with the college's team. Amongst those who played with him were Donie Murphy, John Joe Sheehan, Freddy Murphy and Johnny O'Brien. Mr Fleming went on to win a minor East Kerry league medal with Legion in 1946 and they were narrowly defeated by Iveragh in the minor county championship.

He followed a proud family tradition and became involved with Flesk Valley Rowing Club helping them to win minor titles at Killarney Regatta in 1945 and 1946.

After his rowing days, he became involved in the activities of the club both as an officer and trainer/coach to many victorious crews.

For almost thirty years he served as treasurer and secretary of the Killarney Regatta Committee.

In 1950 he joined Spa GAA Club and was a regular on the senior team and unfortunately lost out on an East Kerry medal when Spa lost to Listry in 1952.

Mr Fleming later served as club secretary in the late 1950s and also held the position of East Board Secretary for three years.

He was also the chairman and coach of Spa/Muckross Community Games and Athletic Club. Other interests included competing in local angling events and Flesk Gun Club. On Tuesday last, the day before he died, Mr Fleming was out and about with his dog an gun.

His long term friend John Kelly, who served with Mr Fleming on a number of organisations, paid tribute to him this week.

"When the last great scorer comes to write against your name, he will ask not who has won or lost but how you played the game. Few have played the game better than Michael Fleming and the many organisations that flanked his hearse during his funeral bore testimony to the esteem in which he had been held by all" John said.

Courtesy of the Kerryman
24th November 2005 Tweet

Most Read Stories