Cunningham, Michael
November 07, 2012Profound sorrow spread over a wide area when it was learned of the passing of Mr Michael Cunningham, of 27 Castlewellan Road, Hilltown, which took place in the Manor Nursing Home, Rathfriland, on Thursday 11 October 2012. He was 80 years old.
Michael was the beloved son of the late Joseph and Bessie Cunningham and loving brother of Francie, Jackie, Betty, Anne, Seamus and the late Bernadette and Harry. Michael was born at the Silent Valley, where his father was employed as a joiner when it was being built. The employees were provided with accommodation during its construction. He was baptised in Massforth Chapel, Kilkeel. His family moved to the townland of Ballymaghery, Hilltown, where he attended the nearby primary school. During his life he worked in the building industry and for 15 years Michael was employed by the Scottish Housing Association whilst residing in Glasgow. On his return from Scotland he severed periodic work form local farmers. He earned the reputation of being a hard worker, who was dedicated and took pride in his endeavours. He was of a friendly and caring disposition and was an avid supporter of his local Clonduff GAA club and followed their success with pride. Michael would travel to the away games of Clonduff on his healthy mode of transport - his bicycle.
Michael enjoyed socialising, partaking in the craic and listening to traditional music. He would occasionally frequent his local public bar, Mary Margaret's Horseshoe Bar, for an evening of entertainment and jovial encounter. Michael is best known for his bravery, when he courageously saved the life of a local boy in 1953. He heroically rescued the drowning child from the River Bann. Michael was duly honoured with a special bravery plaque and certificate from Newry and Mourne District Council in 2006. The certificate hung on his bedroom wall in the Manor Nursing Home where he resided for seven and a half years. The staff in the home were unfailing attentive and provided excellent care to Michael, and the family of Michael wish to record their gratitude and thanks to all for the professional help he received.
Michael accompanied a group from the Manor to Lourdes, which he thoroughly enjoyed. Michael possessed a very strong faith all his life. He attended St John the Evangelist Church in Hilltown regularly for Holy Mass. There was a very large attendance at his funeral, which took place on Sunday 14 October at St John the Evangelist Church, Ballymaghery, Hilltown. Requiem Mass was celebrated by Fr Jarlath Cushenan, PP. Organist was Mrs Eileen Mooney, assisted by the choir of St John's. Interment took place in the adjoining cemetery. Funeral Arrangements were entrusted to Peter McGinn Funeral Undertakers, Hilltown. May his gentle soul rest in the peace of our Lord Jesus Christ.
(Text courtesy of Mourne Observer 07/11/12) Tweet
