‘Beautiful soul’: Much-loved Limerick sacristan passes away suddenly
The unexpected passing of Doon man Michael Reale has left a big hole in the parish
OPENING the church early and putting on the heat for choir practice was one of countless acts of kindness carried out by Doon sacristan Michael Reale during his lifetime.
He ensured that its members could sing in warmth and comfort on cold winter nights. That same choir honoured his memory by performing at his funeral Mass in that very same church last Wednesday, October 14.
Mr Reale passed away following a medical emergency on the previous Friday. The 67-year-old was a Doon man through and through. He attended Doon CBS Primary and Secondary Schools, worked for Berkery’s Leather Products in the village and was the local sacristan for some 25 years after taking over from Sr Mary Annunciata (both pictured below).
The single gentleman loved hurling and enjoyed both Doon and Limerick’s recent success with great pleasure.
Described as “a most courteous and obliging man”, his passing has left a hole in parish life.
Parish priest Fr Jimmy Donnelly, who was walking the Camino when news of Mr Reale’s sudden passing broke, said in a post on Facebook: "Michael was a beautiful soul, a gentle, kind and loyal man whose dedication to St Patrick’s Church and the parish community of Doon was simply extraordinary. Nothing was ever too much trouble for Michael.
"He was always there, quietly and faithfully going about his duties, ensuring that our church was looking its best and that everything was ready for the many celebrations and important moments in the lives of our parishioners.
“From baptisms to first holy communions, confirmations to weddings, funerals to weekday and weekend Masses, and countless other parish celebrations, Michael was a constant and reassuring presence. Much of what he did was done quietly and without fuss, but it never went unnoticed or unappreciated,” said Fr Donnelly, who described Mr Reale as his “right-hand man” throughout his ten years in Doon.
"I could always depend on him, and no matter what I asked of him, nothing was ever a problem. His kindness, loyalty, generosity and willingness to help meant more to me than words can express.
“I, for one, will miss Michael greatly. I will miss his familiar presence around the church, his quiet way of getting things done, and above all, the good and faithful man that he was,” he continued.
Fr Donnelly said Mr Reale was very much in his thoughts and prayers as he walked the Camino, along family, friends and all who mourn his sudden passing.
"Each step along the way gives me time to remember with gratitude all that he did and all that he meant to our parish community.
"Michael spent so much of his life preparing God’s house for others. May the Lord now welcome him into the home prepared for him in heaven. Thank you, Michael, for everything. You will be greatly missed, but never forgotten.
“May your gentle soul rest in the peace of Christ,” said Fr Donnelly.
Mr Reale was laid to rest in Doon Cemetery.
May he rest in peace.