The late Michael (Mickeen) Prenderville The death had taken place of Michael (Mickeen) Prenderville, Stacks Villas, Tralee, where his wife Lolo, family and friends kept a vigil at his bedside. Aged 64, Michael passed away on Ash Wednesday, February 21 2007 having been ill for a period of time. Michael, a jovial and well liked member of the community, spent his whole life in the town in which he was reared. Born in October 1942, one of a large family, he was son of Joe and Margaret Prenderville, of the Staff Barracks, Boherbee. Michael was very proud of his roots and the area in which he grew up, being a life long supporter of the Boherbee John Mitchels Club. He received his formal education from the Christian Brothers at the CBS School, Edward Street, but his real education came when he ventured out in to the world. As a student Michael had a keen interest in literature and was an avid reader for all of his life. His interests also included sport, music and cards. The Red Devils of Man United came second only to the fortunes of the footballers of the Yellow Road. A stylish handball player, he watched some of the best in the old alley in the Green, where every ace was hard won. The music of the 60s and 70s was listened to with Bobby Darin and Elvis Presley among his favourite performers. Darts and cards were played in John Knightly's pub in Bridge Street, oft frequented by fraternity from his workplace with whom he enjoyed a pint. Whenever there was a debate or friendly argument, Michael was often called on to adjudicate and give the final answer. On leaving school, Michael first went to work for the Esso company for a brief period. He then worked for the Kerry Precision Ball Company in Clash, before taking up employment with Henry Denny & Sons at the premises in Gas Terrace and Waterloo Lane. Michael worked with the company for over 30 years, before ill-health forced him to retire in the early 80's. Denny's along with the CWS Bacon Factory in Upper Rock Street, was one of the biggest employers in the town at that time. The large workforce came mainly from the Tralee area with many having gone to school together. What one needed most of all working in Denny's was a sense of humour, it was renowned for the ballhopping. Michael joined with glee, incidents with The Professor, Sly Boots and the Sneaky Narie, for workers were better know by their nicknames. Michael partner in life was Lolo O'Connor from Stacks Villas. They first met while listening to the jukebox at the Green Rooster in Pembroke Street and were married in July, 1965. Michael and Lolo were a very happy and devoted couple. Following Michael's retirement, their daily exercise included long walks and they would often stop to chat with friends from various areas of the town. Residing in Stacks Villa, neighbours and friends helped one another in time of need. Michael knew of their kindness when ill-health was a cause for concern. Lolo was very grateful for the wonderful care and love shown to Michael while a patient at the Bon Secours Hospital. The removal of his remains took place from McElligott's Funeral Home on Thursday, February 22 to St John's Church, where Fr Tom Leen, PP received them. There was a large presence of friends and former work colleagues present and the removal and also at the Requiem Mass on Friday morning, following which burial took place to New Rath Cemetery. At the graveside one of Michael's favourite tunes, 'Always on My Mind' was played on the saxophone by his friend and neighbour George Vince Raymond. Michael is deeply mourned by his loving wife Lolo, brothers Joseph, Tony, George, sisters Babs, Regina, Stephanie, Patricia, Eileen, Elizabeth, Trudi and Marie, nephews, nieces, relatives and many friends. Courtesy of the Kerryman 28 February 2007 Tweet

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