The late Michael O'Neill The untimely death of Michael O'Neill, Beech Grove, Oakpark Tralee, occurred on Tuesday November 22. His sudden death shocked the Oakpark community and the people of Tralee. Michael, a gentle, unassuming, family man was well liked by all those whose lives he touched. He was born to publicans Agnes and Denis O'Neill, Bandon on July 27, 1938. He was the second eldest of seven having one older sister, the late Bernie and five brothers Eoin, Tony, Jerry, Martin, and P.J. Having completed his education in CBS Sullivan's Quay, Cork, Michael travelled to London where he worked as manager in various establishments including the Shakespeare and the Victoria. In 1961 he returned to Ireland to join the Garda Siochanna. He was first stationed in Tralee where he met the love of his life Mary (nee Lambe) from Oakpark. He was then transferred to Castlemaine until 1966, when he sat the Garda clerical examination. On returning to Tralee on June 22, 1966 he was appointed to the sergeant's office. He later moved to the collator's office and finally to the communications' room until his retirement on July 1, 1991. He had 30 very happy years working in the Garda Siochanna. As a Garda he was well respected and trustworthy and made many life-long friends who have many stories to tell. Michael was always very happy to lend a hand at social events for retired members. He was also social secretary of the local branch of the International Police Association and had many an interesting exchange with police from overseas. In 1968 on the death of his father Denis, Michael became the Bandon delegate for the Royal Liver Assurance Company, a position he held for 37 years. He enjoyed many yearly trips attending the company's A.G.M. Michael was a caring family man who dearly cherished his wife Mary and family, Denise, Orla, Siobhan and Michael. In recent years he was overjoyed with the arrival of his two grandchildren, Sinead and Cathal. He worked tirelessly to ensure that all achieved the best in life. No job was ever too difficult. No request was ever refused. Michael enjoyed nothing better than touring France and Spain with his family. He travelled on many a trip with the Garda Travel Club and was fortunate to have an audience with the late Pope John Paul II. In the year 2000, he took a part in the New York St Patrick's Day Parade with the Gardai and the NYPD. Michael was a member of Tralee Golf Club for nearly 40 years. He joined with his friends John Butler and Tom Murphy. He quickly showed his ability winning many competitions. However he derived most pleasure from the friendly fourballs during the summer nights in Mounthawk. He was also a member of the Garda Golfing Society and enjoyed many outings with his colleagues. Other interests took over in his life and golf took a back seat, although many times he promised to make a comeback. In 1991, he was appointed manager of the new clubhouse in Na Gaeil. He was an efficient and reliable manager whose company was enjoyed by many regulars. He took pride in watching the club grow from strength to strength. In 1999 he retired from Na Gaeil to join Mary in running a successful guesthouse. He took interest in meeting many tourists, ensuring they enjoyed their time in Tralee. The love for his garden was evident to all with the colourful array of flowers throughout the year. Michael had a keen interest in sport, especially in Cork football and hurling. He was a member of Probus, the Garda hill-walking club, played the occasional game of cards and still found time to enjoy reading a good detective story. It was evident from the large attendance at his removal and Requiem Mass that Michael was held in very high esteem. The guards of honour representing the Oakpark residents, the Gardai and members of Na Gaeil GAA Club were a testimony to his popularity. Michael's remains were received into St John's Church, Tralee by Fr Padraig Walsh, CC. Also in attendance were Mons Pat Ahearne and Fr Ambrose O'Farrell, OP, Prior Holy Cross. Michael's Requiem Mass was celebrated on Thursday, November 24, Fr Tomas O'Caoimh, chief celebrant, assisted by Fr Tom Leane, Father John O'Rourke, OP and Father Anthony O'Brien. The Kerry Choral Union and St John's Georgian Choir greatly enriched the liturgy of the Mass after which Michael was taken to his place of rest in Rath Cemetery. He will be sadly and lovingly missed. Courtesy of the the Kerryman 22 November 2005 Tweet

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