RIP: Tipperary Presentation Brother remembered for decades of service in Peru and beyond

Tributes are pouring out for Presentation Brother Michael (Mike) McGrath, who passed away peacefully at Cork University Hospital this week.

Brother Michael is remembered as one of life’s unsung heroes; after being professed in 1963, he began his career in Enniskillen where his job was to teach boys who failed their 11+ exams. Later, in 1972 he travelled to Lima, Peru, where he spent a huge portion of his life working in schools. From there, he left for San Antonio, Texas where he spent a number of years before returning home to Ireland.

He was predeceased by his parents John Joseph and Mary Ann, his brothers Teddy and Brendan and sisters Theresa and Angela. He is mourned by his confreres in the Maiville Community and in the wider Presentation Family and also by his nieces and nephews, grandnieces and grandnephews and his many friends in Fé y Alegria 5 in Lima, Peru.

Brother Michael reposed in the oratory in Maiville on Wednesday February 18 which was followed by his funeral mass Mt. St. Joseph, Blarney St., Cork on Thursday, February 19.

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Condolences have been pouring out for him since his passing:

“My deepest sympathy to the McGrath family and his confreres in Maiville and all the Presentation Brothers. We first met in Coláiste Muire, Douglas in 1957 and the last time our paths crossed was about three months ago. It was a pleasure to meet him and people will benefit from his great work for generations to come. Rest in Peace Br. Michael.”

“Our childhood on the Reiska Road was brightened by Michael’s visits and his wonderful slides of Peru. He really was a great human being, totally dedicated to the poor. I learned, from someone who worked in Lima, that Michael’s work rate was incredible. Listening to him speak about his life a few years ago, it was so obvious that he had a deep love for the people he worked with and suffered with them in their sufferings. He was an unsung hero, who lived a simple life and always remained humble. He was dedicated to the service of others.”

“I am deeply saddened by the passing of Brother Michael. He was a gentle, humble, and dedicated servant of God whose life touched many hearts. We are grateful for his example and service, and we trust that he now rests in the Lord’s peace. My sincere condolences to his community, family, and friends. May his soul rest in peace. Amen.”

May he rest in peace.