Force says goodbye to one of its true "good guys"

Members of An Garda Siochana in Mullingar, Kilbeggan and Athlone, as well as family members and the general public will say goodbye to the much loved and retired Detective Garda Mick Burke today (Wednesday), who passed away suddenly on Sunday last, June 6.The fifty-seven-year-old from College Street, Mullingar, and originally from Stradbally in County Laois, was the beloved husband of Marie and dear father of Michael and Lisa.He joined An Garda Siochana in 1975, and served first in Athlone until 1977, moving to Kilbeggan for four years, before serving the rest of his service in Mullingar from 1991 until he retired last December 2009.He has been described by colleagues as one of the genuine "good guys" who was loved by all, and a tremendous character. He was well known as an exceptionally proud Laois man, and indeed was an able footballer for his county in his day.When he moved to Mullingar however, he became heavily involved in club life at Mullingar Shamrocks, and served as secretary for many years. His two children followed in his footsteps and love of sport, with his son Michael winning an All Ireland Minor medal in 1995 and an Under 21 medal against Kerry. His daughter Lisa also plays football and camogie for Westmeath and Raharney.Mick was a very religious man, as is his wife Marie, attending mass every day.His remains were removed to the Cathedral of Christ the King on Tuesday. The funeral mass will take place today, Wednesday, June 9, after 11 o'clock mass, followed by burial at Ballyglass cemetery.He will be dearly missed by his loving wife Marie, children Michael and Lisa, daughter-in-law Andrea, Lisa's fiance John, brother Pat, sister Rena, aunt Nonie, his former colleagues in An Garda Siochana, neighbours and many friends.