Sadness over the passing of 'great friend and valued clubman'

Glinsk GAA has paid tribute to a club stalwart who passed away earlier this week.

Michael Tiernan, Tobberoe West, Glinsk, County Galway passed away on Wednesday at his residence.

Pre-deceased by his parents Johnnie and Mary, he will be sadly missed by his heartbroken sister Marie, his partner Rachel, and by his many relatives, neighbours and a large circle of friends. Michael will also be greatly missed by the children at Glinsk Community Creche and the community he served so well.

Mr Tiernan will be reposing at St Michael's Church, Glinsk, on Sunday 25th January from 5pm to 8pm. Requiem Mass will take place on Monday 26th January at 12 noon with burial afterwards in Ballinakill Cemetery.

Glinsk GAA Club said the news of the passing of “our great friend and valued clubman” caused great sadness in the village.

“Tiernan, as he was affectionately known to those who knew him best, was one of the good guys — a man you could rely on, and a man who took his role in the club and community very seriously,” the club said on social media. “Whenever we needed something done in the club, the words ‘Ring Tiernan’ would soon follow, and he would always show up.

“A discussion would be had, instructions would be given out, Tiernan would consider it — and then do it his own way. But the job would always be done, and always with great thought and care.” 

Mr Tiernan was the club’s groundsman for the last ten years or so, and the quality of its grounds is a testament to his work.

“He was a great supporter of the team, attending all home and away games,” the club continued. “He was always at the end of a phone, and just last week, when we closed the car parks for resurfacing and needed someone to make sure all the kids and parents using the crèche and GAA facilities were safe, the words ‘Ring Tiernan’ were said one final time. Like all the times before, Tiernan showed up at 7am for an 8am start — he needed to weigh the job up before getting going.” 

A great way with young and old alike, Mr Tiernan gave his club and community great service, and the club offered its deepest condolences to his friends and family.