By Tommy Curran
MOVING and glowing tributes have been paid to the late Michael Gerard Roarty, Knockastoller, Bunbeg following his sudden and unexpected death which took place on Saturday.
His passing leaves an irreplaceable void in the hearts of his loving family and his friends. The hugely popular barman was held in high esteem and he will be sorely missed.
The staff and management team of McCafferty’s Bar in Dungloe are totally devastated and heartbroken at the loss of Micheal. He was the heart and soul of McCafferty’s Dungloe over the past six years.
He had only returned to them in February last, having spent the last two years working in their sister venue, McCaffertys JVC in Dubai.
They said: “Micheal always had a warm welcome for everyone as soon as they came through the door. He really was brilliant at what he did and had a great way about him. He was full of fun and craic and we will miss him sorely.”
They offered their sincerest condolences to his mother and family at this most difficult time.
The McCafferty Bar in Dungloe will remain closed until after Micheal’s funeral today, as a mark of respect.
The Barr family of Seán Óg’s Pub and Restaurant at Middletown, Derrybeg said it is with a heavy heart that they learned of the sad passing of their dear colleague and are devastated and heartbroken by his death.
He first worked with the Barr family in the Glenveagh Hotel (Dodge), Derrybeg when he was only 15-years-old.
After his travels and adventures he returned home and joined their team in 2007 when the restaurant opened in Seán Óg’s.
After many years on their team he ventured on to pastures new but on his frequent visits home he would always come in for the catch up.
The Barr family said: “Our hearts are broken. A true gentleman. To know Micheal was to know kindness. He had a way of making everyone feel welcome, with his warmth, quick wit, and laughter and more laughter. He was more than just a good person, he was the light in the room, a storyteller who could turn an ordinary evening into a night of fun and craic. His humour was effortless and his presence, a gift to all who knew him.”
They said that he never sought the spotlight, but his goodness and generosity made him shine in the way that truly mattered. His memory will live on with everyone who knew him.
They said they have had people getting in touch from all around the world, offering their condolences and sharing their memories of him, a testament to the love and impact he had on so many people.
They added that it will never be the same without Micheal and extend their deepest condolences to his mother Sheila and his family.
His Requiem Mass will be celebrated in St. Mary’s Church, Derrybeg today (Thursday) at 11am and he will be laid to rest afterwards in Magheragallon cemetery.
He was predeceased by his father, Mícheál, uncles, Charlie and Noel Roarty, auntie, Bella Doherty and godmother, Irene Roarty.
He will be sadly missed by his heartbroken mother Sheila, sister, Kathleen Bonar (Liam), brother Charlie (Ciara), uncles: Hughie and Martin Roarty, nephews and nieces: Liam, Sinéad, Síle Kate, Ava, Charlie and Louis, his extended family and a wide circle of friends and work colleagues. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam uasal.
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