The death has occurred of Michael Anthony O’Rourke, born 26th February 1946 of London, Kilburn and Wembley, previously Counguilla, Scartaglen and Castleisland.
Passed away peacefully at home following a short illness on Tuesday 16th February 2021. Predeceased by his parents Batt and Katty, nee Divane.
He is survived by his loving wife Kathleen, son Barth, daughter Karina, daughter in-law Angela, grandchildren, Michael, Rebecca and Alána, step-grandsons, Patrick and Liam, four great-grandchildren, sisters Mary Horan, Peggy Kerrisk, brother Jim, extended family and his many friends. May He Rest in Peace.
Popular Members of the Community
Michael ‘Mike’ O’Rourke and Kathleen became popular members of the community in Castleisland when they took over the management of Thos Kelliher’s Bar at No.131 Upper Main Street in the early 1980s and operated successfully there throughout the decade.
The bar became known locally as ‘Mike Rourke’s’ and, with Noel Browne, they became two of Castleisland Desmond GAA Club’s most prominent sponsors during the club’s golden era.
A Week of Celebrations
It was during this magic period that the club won the 1985 All-Ireland Senior Club Football Championship with that never-to-be forgotten last minute goal involving the combined wizardry of Donie Buckley and Martin Downey.
There was a solid week of celebrations after that momentous Sunday in Tipperary and Mike Rourke’s was at the centre of it all.
May God be good to him.
Funeral Private
In accordance with Government guidelines and in the interest of public health, a private funeral by invitation only will take place for Michael on Thursday, 4th March 2021.
Family flowers only, if desired, you can make a donation to St Luke’s Hospice https://www.stlukes-hospice.org/support-us/donate
Date Published: Wednesday 17th February 2021. Date of Death: Tuesday 16th February 2021.
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