'My mother gave me everything I could have wished for in life'
Minister Peter Burke has paid tribute to his mother Mary, who passed away last night.
Peter announced his mother's passing in a post on social media a short time ago.
"My beautiful mother Mary passed away last night. I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to all the staff at Midlands Regional Hospital Mullingar who took exceptional care for Mam, together with her GP Dr Declan Brennan and Irene, my wife Olivia and Aunt Mairead for all the care they gave Mam at home.
"As a mother she gave me everything I could have wished for in life and was ever present in both good days and bad. She adored both of her grandchildren Leo and Ted who gave her so much to live for. She spent over 35 years as a nurse in Midlands Regional Hospital Mullingar, a job she was devoted to, working alongside valued colleagues.
"As many will know losing both parents in two years is not easy to process so our offices will be closed for the next few days as a mark of respect for Mam and I’ll also be taking some time to grieve with my family.
"Finally, I want to thank from the bottom of my heart so many in our community who have reached out with such kindness. Your understanding means everything to me."
Predeceased by her beloved husband Peter; Mary will be very sadly missed and lovingly remembered by her devoted son Peter, her dear daughter-in-law Olivia, adored grandchildren Leo and Ted, sister Theresa, sisters-in-law Doreen, Betty, Pauline, Mary, Olive and Hilda, brothers-in-law Edmund, Denis, Philip and John, nieces, nephews, relatives, good neighbours and many friends, especially her former colleagues at Midland Regional Hospital Mullingar. Remembering also her late parents Peter and Elizabeth, brother Peadar, sister Christina, brother-in-law Mattie and sister-in-law Julia.
Reposing at Gilsenan’s Funeral Home (N91 K660) on Thursday from 4.30pm concluding with prayers at 7 pm. Requiem Mass on Friday at 11am in the Cathedral of Christ the King followed by burial in Walshestown Cemetery. The Mass may be viewed on the live webcam at www.mullingarparish.ie