Michael Ward, class '49

The Union was deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Michael Ward (class '49), father of Joe (class '81) & Matt (class '93), son of the late Joe (class '15), brother of Raymond (class '51), the late Patrick (class '56) and the late Dermot (class '53).

Michael was the eldest of four boys who came to Castleknock in the 1940’s and 1950’s from Kilcloon in Co Meath. His brothers Ray (class of 1951), Dermot (class of 1953) and Pat (class of 1956) followed him.

They were the third generation of the Ward family to attend the college as his father, Joseph (class of 1914), and grandfather, Michael (class of 1873) were students in the college.

During his time in Castleknock he excelled in all sports, especially Rugby. He was good company and made friends easily. They were traits that endeared him to many throughout his life. After leaving Castleknock Michael embarked on a career in farming. He worked initially on the family farm in Kilcloon before farming at Nuttstown near Clonee Co Meath.

Michael had a varied and successful career in farming. He was an innovator and engaged in more intensive farming before it became the norm in the 1970’s. As well as being a producer of beef cattle, he also engaged in tillage farming, mainly grain growing. He was an astute businessman and always knew the margin of what he was selling.

Michael’s interests and friendships were extensive. He played rugby for North Kildare RFC for a number of seasons and in 1953 captained the club to their first Provincial Town Cup win. He was a past president of the Irish Grassland Association and was a member of the Maynooth Young Farmers Club.

Two of Michael’s sons attended Castleknock (Joe 1981 and Matthew 1993). His wife Terry supported Castleknock extensively during the 1990’s when the redevelopment of the College Buildings took place. The Ward connection continues to this day, as currently two of Michael’s grandsons (Mark and Michael) are students in the College.

Michael always followed with great interest how his extended family and friends were, and how they were doing, whether it was on the rugby pitch, on the farm or in their chosen career. He lived a good life and his loss will be felt widely by his many friends.

We offer our sincere condolences to Michael’s immediate family; Linda, Joe, John, Matthew, his wife Terry and to the extended Ward family.
May he rest in peace.

https://rip.ie/death-notice/michael-ward-meath-clonee-544240

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