The Late Michael John Fahey Michael John Fahey Lehinch, Hollymount, who died recently was a legendary character in the Hollymount area. He took ill and died suddenly on the way home after tending to some sheep on the family farm. In former years, Michael Joe was deeply involved with the Hollymount GAA Club. A footballer of note, he won South Mayo Junior championship medals in 1956, '63 and '64 and Mayo junior medals in 1956 and 1964. Throughout that period, Hollymount had an accomplished and stylish team that featured in many an exciting game in the South Division. Some of the great rivalries and traditions among the South Mayo clubs had their roots in that era. He never lost his interest in football and was a proud man when Hollymount emerged as a major force in the senior ranks, winning three championships in the 1990s. Another game which he had a special fondness for was handball. This culminated in a memorable triumph in 1981 when he partnered Mickey Walsh from Charlestown to victory in the All-Ireland doubles. Michael John was a cattle haulier and farmer and was widely known throughout the farming fraternity. His humourless nature and lively wit added flavour to many a conversation. He had a great love for the land and the soil. Farming was in his blood and he belonged in the Mayo countryside from which he derived inspiration and contentment. He was an able judge of stock and had friends all over the region. A larger than life character. Michael John had a word for everyone and a wonderful rapport with all age groups. He loved visiting people and cherished the welcome accorded by friends. Always young at heart, he was a great man for card playing and many were the pleasant nights he spent in the company of his dear friends around the Hollymount area. Hollymount had bade a fond farewell to a popular gentlemen with the passing of Michael John Fahey. He made a great contribution to the community life of the region over many years and will be greatly missed by his devoted family and legion of friends. A wake was held in the family home and removal took place from there to Roundfort church Fr Michael Molloy, P.P. was the chief celebrant at the Requiem Mass and delivered a fine homily. Interment took place in the local cemetery. The large attendance at the ceremonies on both day were truly indicative of the popularity of Michael John throughout the region and further afield. At the graveside as the Winter sun cast its low rays across the Mayo countryside, Pat and Tommy McGovern sang a haunting version of "Danny Boy". Michael John's favourite song. Lonesome were the poignant moments. A fitting farewell to a special character who was an integral part of the community life of the area down through the years. He is deeply regretted by his wife Noreen and family, Damien, Michelle, Aishling and Trevor, brothers Joe (Hollymount) and Frank (Dublin), sisters Teresa Thornton (Clooncormack, Hollymount), May Canny (Kilrush, Hollymount) and Angela Blacoe (Athlone), in-laws, nephews, nieces, relatives, neighbours and friends. By Michael Commins Courtesy of the Western People 17th February 2005 Tweet

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