Tributes have poured in following the devastating news that Michael McGrath passed away in the Donegal Hospice after a brave battle with cancer.
Schoolteacher Michael (40) had been diagnosed with stage four bowel cancer late last year. The ‘A Future for Michael’ campaign was set up to fundraise for Michael to travel to Vienna to receive specialised immunotherapy, with an amazing €167,000 being raised by almost 3,000 people. Local fundraisers also took place, including an auction organised by the Donegal golfing community.
Father-of-one Michael had previously taught at Finn Valley College, with students of the secondary school donating the proceeds of one of their Christmas Concert showings to Michael’s campaign.
A spokesperson for the school shared a touching tribute to their former colleague, extending their deepest sympathies to Michael’s family at this time.
“We were devastated to hear of the passing of our friend and former colleague Michael Mc Grath who died peacefully yesterday in the Donegal Hospice, aged 40, after a brave battle.
“Michael taught in Finn Valley College over a number of years in the old school before moving onto pastures new when he gained a further qualification as a Guidance Counsellor and secured a post in Rosary College, Crumlin, Dublin 12.
“Michael was a very popular colleague and a dear friend to a lot of the members of our current and former staff.
“A keen sportsman, Michael truly enjoyed his time in Finn Valley College and forged friendships then that have endured over the years and the miles.
“He was a gentleman in every aspect and will be sadly missed by everyone who had the pleasure of knowing him.
“The sincerest sympathies of our school community are extended to Michael’s wife Susan, nine-month-old son Senan, his mother Mary, father Pat, sisters Mary and Bernadette and brother Anthony. Ar dheis go raibh a anam.”
Michael’s remains are reposing at his parents Pat and Mary Mc Graths’ residence at Listillion, Letterkenny.
Funeral from there on Monday, 5th February, at 10.15am going to the Church of the Irish Martyrs for 11am Funeral Mass followed by interment in Conwal Cemetery.
His family have asked for family time between 10pm and 11am, and on the morning of the funeral. Family flowers only.
Donations in lieu, if desired, to Relay for Life or The Donegal Hospice c/o any family member.
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