Michael J. Noonan R.I.P

The Sean Wall Committee are sad to record the death of our friend and colleague Mr. Michael J. Noonan. Those of us privileged to work with Michael over the years saw at first hand his outstanding commitment to the service of his community.  Michael was Secretary of the main Sean Wall Committee, The Sean Wall Memorial Committee,  Sean Wall Restoration Co. Ltd and Bruff Housing Co. Ltd.  Michael was also a most enthusiastic member of the Bloomsday in Bruff Committee.

The saving and restoration of the Old RIC Barracks and the beautiful restoration of The Church of Ireland  are two fine examples of his legacy to the community in Bruff. The construction of five housing units at the rear of the barracks are also a result of his energy and commitment. His work with the Sean Wall Memorial Committee ensured that due respect was accorded  in our community, every Easter, to those who fought and died in our fight for freedom; likewise an annual ceremony at the republican plot in Grange.

Michael was one of the original committees members that established what is now the fine GAA Sports Ground in Bruff. He worked tirelessly to support  the work of Margaret Shaughnessy at Foynes Flying Boat Museum. He was a director of Ballyhoura Community Development Co. Ltd and a Director of Carebright Company, working for care in the community.

 Michael had a longstanding working relationship with his great friend of many years Mr. Dennis Barrett, Chairman of The Sean Wall Committee.   Dennis said  “ Michael was great man, with a commitment to his community that was unparalled. I have been privileged to be his friend for many years, to see at close hand his work. I shall miss his company and friendship with a great sadness”           

We who worked closely with him, were very aware of the many kind and compassionate deeds, performed quietly and privately for those who sought his help. Until relatively recently we were also in awe of his energy and determination, to see a project through, to attend all meetings of the various committees.

Donal Thurlow PRO for the Sean Wall Committee said “Michael adopted the technology of the mobile phone with enthusiasm, and was an avid texter! He would ask you to see to a certain task. He would phone the next day.....to see how you were...   and   to check that you had completed the task. If you had not he would follow up your progress with a relentess energy; you soon learnt that it was easier to see to Michael’s tasks promptly! It has been a daunting task to cover for Michael in recent months as Acting Secretary. I have become more aware than ever of the amount of work he got through. Michael was a compassionate man of great integrity; we were privileged to have him as a colleague and as a friend.

Donal Thurlow

PRO Sean Wall Committee