Family was everything to Michael Cooney

ON Wednesday 26 March, a much-loved, well-known and respected man, Michael Cooney, passed away. Michael was predeceased by his wife Josie 20 years ago. They married in 1966 in St Joesph’s Church, Tinryland.

Michael was the owner of Cooney’s Sports & Games at Penneys shopping centre, Carlow. They were blessed with seven children ‒ Alan, Ciaran, Aiden, Sandra, Lorraine, Siobhan and Serena ‒ and 12 grandchildren.

Both Josie and Michael were hard workers and between them they ran the family business successfully when the family moved to Carlow from Newbridge in 1979. The shop had everything, from sports gear, key cutting, shoe repair, racquet repair and t-shirt printing. He also took his business on the road, attending Sunday markets, concerts and the ploughing championships.

Both Michael and Josie loved to travel and he embraced this following Josie’s passing. He travelled to Australia, Cyprus, Cape Verde and Europe, often with a grandchild or two with him.

They both supported and encouraged their children and grandchildren with their hobbies, Irish dancing for the girls and football and soccer for the boys.

The grandchildren referred to him as ‘GDM’ – granddad Mick. Family was everything to him and he kept in contact with his relatives, often organising gatherings with his extended family. His love of dancing, music and GDM’s play list will be fondly remembered by all who knew and loved him.

Michael was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s Disease six years ago and he lived independently at home for four years. Covid lockdowns heavily affected his routine and the disease progressed. Michael lived at home for 17 months with family and carers 24/7.

Although Alzheimer’s slowly took its toll, he brought laughter, good humour and fun to those around him and continued to be the heart of the family.

The Cooney family would like to thank all of Daddy’s carers, the staff of St Luke’s Hospital, Sonas Nursing Home, Bethany House and Askea Daycare Centre. We also want to thank our neighbours in Ashgrove and further afield who looked out for Daddy over the years. To our friends, neighbours and all who have supported us through this difficult time, thank you.

Michael’s month’s mind Mass will take place on Saturday at 7pm in Askea church.