MICK CLEARY RIP .... A TRUE GENT!

Mick Cleary went to his eternal reward on 28th April last.  In this short tribute, his long-time friend Pauric McMenamin remembers a man who shall be sadly missed by all in Kilmacud Crokes club:

"I first met Mick Cleary and his wife Ena at a minor match in 1990 as they watched their beloved Con playing against Whitehall.  Their genial personalities were evident then ... even though the game was going against us!  So started a long relationship that has always being filled with warmth and genuine respect. 

As Con progressed to the Crokes senior team, coming on as a sub in the 92 final against Civil Service (our historic 1st senior championship title), Michael and Ena's pride and enjoyment was palpable for all to witness.

Michael was to join the Football Committee and made a genuine contribution to our success through Leinster and on to the ultimate All Ireland pinnacle in 1995.  We often recalled the "Trip to Tipp" .... the thrill of arriving in his native Tipperary, with a train full of"Jackeens"!  Supporting his new Dublin club in an All Ireland semi final was a source of great pride and banter. 

Recently he had not been as strong as in previous years but his sense of fun never waned.  He would remind me on each of our meetings: "I have the boots in the car"!!

Ar dheis De go raibh a anam dilis"

http://www.rip.ie/death_notices_detail.asp?NoticeID=162737

Our photo (below) shows Mick in 2005, with wife Ena (centre) and Yvonne Clancy, celebrating the 10thanniversary of our first All Ireland win.