NEW ROSS is mourning the sad loss of one of its best known characters, with the passing of Michael O’Brien.

Michael, fondly known as Micko, formerly of 14 Harvey Place, New Ross, will be remembered by all as a fun loving, good natured man, who had a word for everyone.

Sadly Micko passed away peacefully in Wexford General Hospital last Tuesday afternoon (March 31) surrounded by his loving family. He was aged just 55 years.

He had been in the constant care of the wonderful staff in New Ross Community Hospital for five years, after he was seriously injured during a polo cross practice session in October 2001.

The son of the late Mick and Nancy O’Brien, Micko was the eldest of nine children, with siblings; Trisha, Timmy, Eileen, Kevin, Margaret, Ann, Merci and Andrew.

As a child he was educated in the CBS Primary School and later in the CBS Secondary School, before moving to England after his Leaving Certificate, where he worked in a pub and also in a Fanta factory.

Upon his return to Ireland he worked in the PMPA insurance company in Dublin for a few years, before moving back to New Ross, where he worked in New Ross Post Office.

Micko followed in his father’s footsteps and worked in New Ross Post Office for 19 years until his retirement due to ill health.

He was a much loved and exceptionally well-known postman, who endeared himself to many, with his great sense of humour and caring manner.

He was a true family man, who loved spending time with his partner Kate Aspel and their son Thomas, along with those dearest to him.

He also had great time for his friends and he made many lasting friendships throughout his life. Micko always had a listening ear and was called upon many times to offer support and advice to those he loved.

He loved playing a game of darts or cards and playing a game of golf and he was a keen follower of the fortunes of New Ross Rugby Club. Together with his son Thomas, Micko loved to go fishing.

Micko had a lifelong love for horses, which began at the tender age of 14 and he dedicated much of his leisure time to equestrian activities.

He travelled around the country to compete in polo cross, show jumping and gymkhana events, which he won many awards in.

Huge numbers of mourners attended his removal from his family home place at 6 Bungalows in the Irishtown on Friday morning to the St. Mary and Michael’s Parish Church, where his funeral mass was celebrated by Fr. Roger O’Neill.

Fittingly, a Guard of Honour was formed by the Postmen from New Ross Post Office, who held Micko in high regard and regarded him as a true friend and great colleague.

He was buried afterwards in St. Stephen’s Cemetery.

Micko is survived and dearly missed by his partner Kate Aspel, son Thomas, his brothers, sisters, relatives and a wide circle of friends.

May he rest in peace.

Tags: , , , ,