The recent passing of Mick Lennon in his 96th year brought deep sadness to Kilkenny and to many parts of the country. His passing, since Mick was an integral part of the Newpark neighbourhood, leaves a huge void in our community. His passing also closes a chapter on a generation of the highly Respected and much loved Lennon family .Mick’s life, from birth to death, was lived within a few acres. Born in Ballybought (now Golf Links Road), he moved in 1955 to Newpark Lower — at that
time a newly constructed estate with modern facilities. During early childhood, times were hard but happy, as siblings and friends cavorted in ‘Curtis Field’ and around the large green farmland spaces that surrounded Ballybought. Here wildlife proliferated. A variety of birds enjoyed the trees and hedges; the corncrake and the cuckoo were regular and much anticipated visitors. Hares, rabbits and foxes likewise abounded. Growing up in this environment, Mick learned to appreciate the rich tapestry of nature and learned to identify accurately the different kinds of birdsong. This ability remained with him throughout his life and brought him much pleasure.
Pump
Sundays after early Mass, the lads from Ballybought would gather at the pump, the designated meeting point for all youthful interactions,. Then they would take off with their hunting dogs and traverse the fields to Johnswell. This journey was done with the permission of landowners — with only one stipulation: if you opened a gate, you closed that gate behind you. After a day’s adventure, they would return in time for the 7pm Confraternity in St John’s.
His marriage to Jo Conway in 1960 saw Mick settle into life as a committed family man. They were blessed with three children, Michael, Rita, and Beth, who brought focus and stability to this young couple. Work in ‘The Boot Factory’ added constancy and security. As an employee, Mick was exemplary and a dedicated member of the workforce, renowned for his honesty, ability and commitment.
The conclusion of the working day saw Mick tending the gardens to the front and the rear of his home. The front garden, enclosed by neatly trimmed hedges, contained an assortment of colourful flowers that complemented two magnificent hydrangeas. The back garden contained a variety of vegetables — potatoes, onions, carrots and parsnips. Mick was an accomplished and proficient
gardener, someone whose endeavours brought acclaim and admiration.Mick had a keen interest in hurling and could talk knowledgeably about games locally and nationally. Having watched games over the decades, he had great admiration for players of commitment and class. Names that resonated with him were Christy Ring, Jimmy Doyle, Nicky Rackard, Jack Mulcahy, Paddy Grace and Lory Meagher. But he believed the game’s finest exponent was Jim Langton.
Greyhounds
For all his love of hurling, there was no doubting his greatest sporting interest: greyhound racing. Here he was in his element. He loved the excitement, the intrigue, the camaraderie and the sheer joy this pursuit invoked. He became immersed in the industry as owner, trainer, and mentor to anyone seeking guidance and advice. His own successful dogs included Dana, Uncle Remus and the
exemplary Miss Ritabeth .The greyhound fraternity is a tight knit and loyal group. Mick developed long lasting and friendly relationships. Included in this inner circle were John Hindle, Frank Scott, Paddy Sunderland, Pat Carroll and Joe Doheny, as well as his neighbours Mons Heffernan, Seánie Nolan, Joe Daly and Dinnie Moylan. Often, this coterie spent nights in an endless circle of debate on races, tactics and the merits or otherwise of specific dogs. The discussions ended only because of the need for sleep prior to work the following day. But this cessation was only a hiatus, since the
discourse resumed at the earliest possible opportunities. Over the years, Mick Lennon became an iconic figure whose expertise was eagerly sought by fellow enthusiasts. Damian O’Connell, Mick’s close neighbour and friend, always sought his approval before buying a greyhound. Damian credits Mick’s remarkable eye for sourcing Wellsborough Dan, his most successful winner.
25’s
Mick liked to relax with a few quiet pints and a game of ’25’ (although it must be said that he was a fiercely competitive card player — woe betide the player whose carelessness caused the loss of a trick). In earlier times, Langton’s and The Nore Bar were the hostelries of choice. In latter years, he migrated to Pat Carroll’s and the Army Barracks. He enjoyed these evenings with his friends and contemporaries, Bill Wilkinson, John Dunne, Tommy Higgins, Amby Fogarty and Larry Murphy. Chats among this group of trusted friends were often vociferous but always remained amiable.
With the birth of his first grandchild, Nicola, life changed and henceforth
Mick, within the family circle, was always Grandad. Eight grandchildren and four great grandchildren embellished his life. He absolutely relished the joy and happiness they brought. He felt renewed and invigorated by them and became alive and energised in their company.
History
Mick liked to relax with his pipe and enjoyed a smoke while sitting by the fire. Reading was central to his mental well being. He particularly enjoyed history books and would quietly while away an
hour or two engrossed in a novel. His Catholic faith was extremely important to his being and self worth. Even as the Church struggled with internal conflict, he remained steadfast and loyal. He was adamant that Mass and the sacraments provided succour and sustenance.
Though Mick was in ill health for some time, he remained alert and vibrant throughout, rediscovering the joys of Ireland’s Own and continuing to have a small wager at the weekends. The end came surprisingly quickly. Earlier that day he celebrated a much cherished winner at the races. Later, surrounded by close family, Mick left this world quietly, with dignity and composure – the
same attributes that marked his life. The enormity of his passing has left us bereft and distraught. We recognise that Mick was perhaps the last of his generation to have a detailed awareness and understanding of our locality. A library of knowledge, with the passing of this local historian, has
disappeared forever. We will miss Mick Lennon greatly. His kindness and innate goodness touched the hearts of many people and he has left a remarkable legacy that will continue to resonate with all
who had the privilege of knowing him. Thank you Mick, for the company, the chats and the laughs.
Codladh sámh.
