Farewell to a Gentleman and a Scholar
It was with great sadness that I learned of the recent death of Michael Quinlan of Knockainey and Lough Gur, Co. Limerick. Rest in Peace, Michael. Michael, first and foremost a supreme family man, was a teacher, author, historian, folklorist, story-teller, archaeologist, musician, confidante and a provider of advice and friendship to many.
His personal presence was remarkable, larger than life, and time spent in his company was always rewarding. A man well read, his wide-ranging knowledge knew no bounds. Michael's contributions to education, his community and the wider society were remarkable and extraordinary. He influenced and enriched the lives of many in various ways. His influences and legacies will live on in the memories of those touched by his life, in his published works and in all of the community and Lough Gur initiatives and developments to which he was central. At a personal level, I always had had a huge regard for and admiration of Michael going back as far as the early 1970s, when I began to know him socially. At one time, Michael kept a fine row boat on Lough Gur, which he generously permitted Brendan Madden and myself to use in our quest for large pike. In more recent times, Michael eagerly provided me with advice and assistance with my involvement in the publication of the Grange Parish Book - Grange Past and Present (2015). He provided salient written material from the past and additional information, reviewed some of my drafted articles and contributed to the book himself. His inputs were invaluable and hugely appreciated. I offer my Sincere Sympathy and Condolences to Michael's wife, Anne, his children, other family members and relatives and to his wide circle of friends. When I visit Lough Gur and the surrounding localities into the future, I will be spontaneously and fondly reminded of Michael J. Quinlan. Rest In Peace.
Tommy Hourigan
