The late Michael Redmond A gentle giant of the hurling field was laid to rest with the funeral of Michael Redmond, whose death at the age of 51 has been the cause of such sorrow. His sorrowing wife Margaret and the couple's children, son James and daughters Sarah, were joined by the large numbers of sympathisers playing their last respects. Mick Redmond, who was aged 51 when he passed away, lived most of his adult life in Ferns but his sporting exploits ensured that he will forever be associated with Clonee in the half-parish of Ballyduff. He now lies buried in the cemetery of his home place. The deceased was a member of a large family of over a dozen from Raheen and he was drawn at an early age to the playing field in Clonee. His brothers Paddy and Stephen also lined out on occasion with the club but it was Mick who really made a name for himself at hurling. He filled the full back berth for most of his career and assisted Clonee to county junior titles in both 1976 and 1984. Many of those who saw him in action maintain that he could have held his own at the highest level but he remained loyal over the years to his roots and never sought a transfer in search of greater glory elsewhere. He was happy to turn out until into his late forties and, when he eventually hung his hurl, became a selector. Mick did eventually find a measure of high achievements in a Wexford shirt, as a member of the masters (over-40's) side that campaigned in the 1990s to good and companionable effect. Away from the pitch, he worked in turn as a butcher and as a landscape gardener, turning his hand to whatever he could. He first became ill almost two years ago but his final decline and death proved very sudden, to the shock and sorrow of all who knew him. His funeral Mass was celebrated by Fr Michael Byrne. The massive turn-out gave indication of the high regard in which the deceased was held. Guards of honour were provided by both the Clonee club and by the Wexford masters. Mick Redmond is survived by his wife, daughter, son and grandson Jack as well as other relatives. Courtesy of the Wexford People. august 2003 Tweet

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