The late Michael Lillis There was widespread sadness throughout Clare GAA circles and in Feakle in particular following the death after a short illness of Michael Lillis. A native of Patrickswell, Michael came to live in Feakle in 1978 because of his work with Coillte. He quickly got involved in a variety of local organisations including the GAA club and he filled various positions on the club executive including those of secretary and chairman. Under his leadership Feakle developed their playing field. Speaking at his funeral mass in Kilcloon in County Meath, Fr Harry Bohan said that the late Mr Lillis was 'probably the best man that ever came to Feakle. He was a huge community man, a visionary, a peacemaker, a facilitator. He was chairman of Feakle GAA and was the prime mover in getting the playing field developed. There was great respect for him in Feakle and in East Clare in general." Fr Bohan went on to say that "he was a very capable man in his job and got serious promotion. Unfortunately for the people in Clare, it took him away from the area and he was a huge loss to East Clare and to Feakle, in particular." Within a short time of setting up home at Kilcloon in County Meath, he was elected chairman of the GAA club there and under his leadership, the club progressed up the ranks and were crowned senior champions a few years ago. Both Kilcloon GAA and Feakle GAA club members formed a guard of honour at the removal of his remains. Mr Lillis who was 57 is survived by his wife Marie and his daughters Ciara, Siobhan and Roisin. Courtesy of The Clare Champion 21 July 2006 Tweet

Most Read Stories