Roscommon’s oldest man passes away at the age of 107
The late Michael Coyne celebrating his 107th birthday with a pint in Hester's, Golden Eagle, Castlerea in January. He was proudly showing the medal he received from president Michael D. Higgins. Pic. Brian Farrell
The death occurred earlier today at the age of 107 of Mr Michael Coyne, from Fairymount.
The sad news of the death of the county’s oldest person was shared on Facebook by his godson, Austin Waldron.
Recently, Mr Coyne, who was living in Boyle with his nephew and carer, Neil McGarry, was presented with a copy of ‘Powering the West, A History of Bord na Móna and ESB in North Mayo’.
He worked on the construction of the famous Bellacorick power station during the 1950s and was employed by the John Waldron construction company.
While working on the project he stayed in digs with a local family in Bellacorick.
Michael was presented with a copy of ‘Powering the West’ by PJ Lynn, who was a member of the Crossmolina-based committee behind the publication of the history. He was delighted to see his name recorded in the book as one of the many workers employed in the construction.
The country’s second oldest man, he celebrated his 107th birthday in January in Fairymount Church, where he was baptised, and in Hester's of Castlerea.
To mark the occasion Michael recited a poem for the gathering of family and friends.
Michael was still driving at 98, and was an avid reader of the Roscommon Herald. A staunch Fianna Fáil supporter all his life, he carried his party membership card and his driver’s licence (valid until 2018) in his wallet. (Funeral details will be announced later)
