Culloty, Michael
May 01, 2008
The Late Michael Culloty
The death has occurred of Michael Culloty of Barnfield, Currow, on April 18th.
Michael was born on 4th June, 1924 in Barnfield where he grew up of the family farm which is now run by his son, Jimmy. Having finished school in Currow village Michael worked the family farm for as long as his health allowed him. He loved the farming life and always had great time for everyone that called to his home. He had a special fondness for the older generation and loved keeping old memories alive over the years.
He was always interested and in his element when he got to share stories, poems and old sayings with people. He had a fantastic memory for history and had a talent for tracing relations for people. People came from all over the world to Michael and could not believe the memory Michael had. He could go back generations and give them their family tree. He loved to compare times past to nowadays.
On the farm, growing up, they used to walk the cattle to fairs in Castleisland or Killarney. Every farm had their own garden where they grew their own potatoes and vegetables. The Cullotys kept hens, pigs, cattle and horses for working the land.
Michael reclaimed the top of Currow hill which he ploughed with the horses. At that time the hill had been under furze and Michael did a great job.
Michael had a great love for sport. He played for Currow Football Club and was captain when they won the East Kerry League in 1945. He played his last game of football in 1974 at 50 years of age and the club formed a guard of honour at the funeral. Michael also played rugby with Castleisland and took Moss Keane to the pitch for he first time.
Michael married Kitty Courtney, Tomies, Beaufort, in 1962. They celebrated 45 years of marriage last year. They had four sons, Michael, Donal (RIP), Martin, Jimmy and a daughter Mary. Donal died as a result of a tragic road accident on 24th May 1982.
Michael was a regular contributor to local papers and was famous throughout Munster and beyond for his interviews on local radio. Michael's last wish was to pass away at his home and he got his wish on the 18th April. Michael will be hugely missed by his wife Kitty, sons, Michael, Martin and Jimmy, daughter Mary, son-in-law John, daughter-in-law Sheila, brother Martin, sisters and brothers-in-law, grandchildren Alex, Amanda, Daniel, Brian and Jennifer and a large circle of friends.
May he rest in peace.
Courtesy of The Kerry's Eye
1st May 2008
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