Nenagh Éire Óg tribute to Mick Burns, a local legend and a colossus of the game of hurling
It was with great sadness that Nenagh Éire Óg learned of the passing of Mick Burns last Wednesday evening.
Mick was life president of Nenagh Éire Óg for the past number of years but it was his achievements on the hurling field that he is best known for.
Mick Burns is Nenagh Éire Óg's most decorated player, winning a Minor All-Ireland in 1955 and five Senior All Ireland medals between 1958 and 1965.
In his years hurling with the Tipperary, Mick also won Munster, National League and Oireachtas titles as well as a Railway Cup representing Munster in 1963.
But in his hometown of Nenagh it is the two North Senior titles he won in 1957 and 1964 with Nenagh Éire Óg that he is most fondly remembered.
He captained the 1964 winning team and the iconic photograph of Mick being carried shoulder high holding the Frank McGrath Cup aloft is a lasting memory for all Nenagh Éire Óg supporters.
At club level Mick also won North Minor and Junior titles in his earlier playing years. When his hurling days ended with Nenagh Éire Óg in the late 60s, Mick continued to be involved with the club as a selector to many teams throughout the 70s and 80s.
Mick remained a loyal supporter of Nenagh Éire Óg down through the years and there was no-one prouder in 1995 when the club won the Dan Breen for the first time, a win made extra special with son Ronan a member of the squad.
His lifetime of dedication to both Nenagh Éire Óg and Tipperary GAA was rewarded in later years when Mick was honoured by the Tipperary Co Board with a Laochra Gael award – a richly deserved award and a proud day for Mick and his family.
Right up to his passing, Mick’s interest in and love of club activities never waned and over the past few summers, as his health was failing, his family regularly brought him around the corner from his home in Monaree to watch teams training in MacDonagh Park.
Mick loved these visits, as did all those who were fortunate to meet and chat with him.
Mick's funeral took place on Saturday last with Nenagh Éire Óg providing a Guard of Honour from MacDonagh Park through the streets of his beloved Nenagh to St Mary’s of the Rosary Church.
Mick's former Tipperary colleagues and County Board members joined the funeral cortege along the way - a fitting tribute to a Nenagh Éire Óg and Tipperary legend.
To his wife Pauline; sons Michael, Ronan and John; daughters Michelle and Ciara; his eight grandchildren and the extended Burns family we offer our deepest sympathies.
Rest in peace Mick, you will be sadly missed by all.
Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílis.