'An old school gentleman': Tributes pour in for lifelong Limerick Civil Defence volunteer

A WAVE of tributes has poured in for Limerick Civil Defence volunteer of over 60 years, Michael J Ryan, who is remembered as “an absolute gentleman”.

Michael joined the Civil Defence in December 1961 aged just “15 and a half-years old,” following an interest in first aid as a child.

“The official joining age was 16 so I was terrified I would be thrown out," Michael told Limerick Live in December 2021, marking 60 years since joining the Civil Defence.

Just last year, Michael received a long service medal marking his time in the Civil Defence from then-Tanaiste and Minister for Defence Micheál Martin. 

Michael, who was originally from the Mill Road, Corbally and later lived in Shannon Banks, worked in City Hall all his life.

On his 60-year anniversary with the Civil Defence, the organisation paid tribute to his work, saying: “He is known the length & breadth of the country through his 60 years with the organisation from teaching, activities, duties, the setting up/adjudicating of exercises and competitions at local, regional and national levels.”

Civil Defence Officer Cecilia O’Flaherty told Limerick Live: “Michael had four loves in his life, his wife Sheyla (with whom he would have celebrated 50 years of marriage this year), his garden, travelling and Civil Defence”. 

She added that “he always had a smile on his face and always had stories to tell”.

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The Order of Malta Limerick Unit said: “To Sheyla and Michael’s immediate family and friends, and his Civil Defence family in Limerick and nationwide. May I sympathise on behalf of the Limerick unit, of which Michael was a member and a former Officer in Charge (and Captain). From all our Knights, Dames, Officers and members. May Michael’s gentle soul rest in peace.”

Michael led the unit from 1984 to 1987.

Condolences poured in for the lifelong volunteer on RIP.ie, with one commenter saying: “He leaves behind a lovely legacy of volunteerism, through which he mentored, supported, and encouraged the best out of people. An old school gentleman, his welcoming smile, calm presence, and quick wit will be fondly remembered.”

Others described him as “an out and out gentleman” and “a true and kind friend”.

Michael died peacefully at Milford Care Centre on Wednesday, July 9, “with acceptance and quiet dignity”.

He was the beloved husband of Sheyla, and is sadly missed by his sister Peg, brother Stephen, extended family, neighbours and friends.

He will repose at Thompson’s Funeral Home, Thomas Street on Friday, July 11 from 5pm to 6.30pm. Funeral arriving at Shannon Crematorium on Saturday, July 12 for a Humanist Service at 2pm.