Ballyteague GFC were saddened with the recent passing of their esteemed club president the late Mick Gilligan. Born on 30 December, 1914. Unfortunately Mick had to deal with many tough and sad times in his life. Loosing his mother when he was only 4, his good wife the late Annie passed away in 1948, leaving him to bring up seven children in hard times, the youngest only two years old. He then suffered the further loss of two sons, Seamus at the age of 20 and Johnny at the age of 40. But to his credit he battled on a remarkable man, who never seemed to complain, just got on with life.

The GAA was a big part in his life also. Firstly as a player with his beloved Larks. Indeed he lined out on many occasions with his sons on the same team. When Ballyteague were out of existence he helped neighbouring Club Robertstown to a county title. He helped the Ballyteague Club to reform in 1951. He has been a loyal member and president for many, many years and rarely missed a game or an AGM. right up into his nineties, until his recent illness. Despite his senior years he always insisted on paying his membership fee and supported club fundraising. In November 2006 he was honoured with the well deserved Club Hall of Fame Award. A lovely memory of that occasion at the Annual Dinner Dance, was to see Mick and his '92 year old sister Bridge take to the floor.
He was a dedicated follower of all the Kildare teams for over 80 years. He told many stories of himself and friends walking to many a game even as far as Croke Park. His late son Jonny was honoured with his family presenting a trophy to Kildare for the Minor Football Championship. His son Mick has given great service to the Club as a player and Chairman in our golden years in the early 70s. His grandsons have all given great service to the Larks down through the years, winning a number of championships. His great grandsons now line out for the Larks. His popularity was evident with the large crowd at his removal and burial with the club having a fitting Guard of Honour to an outstanding GAA Gael and father figure of the club.
To his family and large circle of friends the club extend their deepest sympathy.

- Leinster Leader, 23rd July 2009 Tweet

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