Mr Michael McCann

THE community of Saintfield and surrounding district were saddened to learn of the passing of Mr Michael McCann, a former businessman in the town.

He died on December 18 in Thompson House, Lisburn, a short time after moving there following a long period of hospitalisation in the Ulster Hospital Dundonald. He was 61. 

Michael, youngest son of Kieran and Sally McCann, was born and lived  in Belfast until the age of 11, after which he moved with his family to Saintfield.

His education included attendance to  St Mary’s Primary School in Saintfield, St Colmcille’s  Secondary School, Crossgar, and Downpatrick Technical College. He spent his working life in the successful family business, the Rowallane Inn in Saintfield, from which he retired at an early age due to ill health.

For many years after his retirement he lived a happy and peaceful life in the town with his twin sister, Patricia, and attended the Day Centre in Downpatrick. During these years his illness caused him a number of short stay hospitalisations which he recovered from remarkably well.

In October 2016 he became more seriously ill which led to longer spells of hospitalisation and a decline in his health.

Throughout his illness in recent years he displayed great strength of character and determination in coping with limited independence and was very appreciative of any assistance given to him.

He spent many happy hours actively engaged in activities such as art work, playing board games and watching TV, etc. 

Michael was of a quiet and calm disposition with a good sense of humour and a dry wit.  He was hard working, generous in nature and always ready to help out.

He was a keen sportsman and in his younger days enjoyed playing soccer for local teams and Gaelic football for St Mochai’s GAC, Darragh Cross. Later in life he played snooker and golf in his leisure time.

In sporting activities he always played with a fair and competitive spirit, a good endeavour towards winning and liked to press home an advantage.

He enjoyed many holidays abroad and liked to relax in the simple comforts of his own home. 

He is survived by his sisters, Geraldine and Patricia, brother-in-law John and sister-in-law Anne. He was predeceased by his brother, Gregory. He will be sadly missed by his extended family and friends. 

His requiem mass on December 20 in Mary Mother of the Church, Saintfield, was conducted by  Fr Anthony McHugh PP and his remains were later interred in the parish cemetery at Kilcarn.

Michael’s Month’s Mind Mass will be held on January 19 in Mary Mother of the Church, Saintfield, at 6.30pm.