Tributes paid to former Roscommon Herald reporter

Tributes have been paid to a former local journalist who passed away recently after a short illness.

Mr Michael (Mike) Lavery, aged 73, worked at The Roscommon Herald, The Leitrim Observer and The Evening Herald throughout his journalistic career, Mr Lavery attended the College of Commerce, School of Journalism, in his native Rathmines in 1973 and started his journalism career with the Roscommon Herald, where he was a junior reporter for over five years.

He then joined the Leitrim Observer, but returning to Dublin where he worked freelance for Independent News and Media before joining on a full-time basis with the Herald.

Mr Lavery, who lived in Cabinteely with his wife Catherine, specialised in security and defence reporting.

He covered a number of the major crime stories before retiring from Independent News and Media in 2013.

His twin brother and fellow journalist, Don, described Michael as meticulous in his accuracy.

“Michael was a very trusted reporter and covered everything in journalism,” Don told the Irish Independent.

“As well as being my best friend and twin, he was one of the finest journalists of his generation.

“He had an encyclopedic knowledge of history, aviation, firearms, movies and many other subjects.

“He won the jackpot when he met and married Catherine, a wonderful, loving and strong woman.

“He and Catherine provided loving and solid support in the various crises in my life, including the death of my wife, Breda. He will be sorely missed.” 

Funeral arrangements will be announced in due course.