Mick Brassil

Republicans in Kerry have extended their deepest sympathies to the family and many friends of Mick Brassil, who was laid rest on 14 March.

What can we say about Mick Brassil that the people who were closest to him don't already know? He was a man with a heart of gold, he was literally a gentle giant and his love for his family knew no bounds.

Mick was educated in Tralee CBS and he also attended Mungret College and Rockwell College, where he developed a love for rugby and became an accomplished prop forward. Mick was most passionate about rugby but he also had a keen interest in Gaelic football, hurling, soccer and of course, his greyhounds.

Mick moved to Gortatlea, Tralee about 20 years ago with his family, where he worked in the transport business and according to those that lived near him he was an extremely kind and generous neighbour.

Wherever Mick went, he always managed to strike up lifelong friendships, including within the republican family.

Mick joined the Republican Movement in the '70s and throughout his years of involvement he was willing to do whatever he could for the struggle. It is not publicly known what Mick did for the struggle, but the people who had the privilege of working with him will know that he played his part in the search for justice, equality and freedom.

Mick was never one for the limelight but he was always there, working in the background, and that is probably why we will never know the extent of his involvement. Mick had a keen interest in the Peace Process and was fully behind what the leadership was doing in the search for a just and lasting peace.

He was always available to give advice or to voice his own opinion on any matter. Mick had a heart of gold and everyone that knew Mick will never forget his genorosity towards the republican prisoners and their families.

Mick will be sorely missed by all his friends, comrades and his family, by his parents, Mary and Willie, sisters Pat, Anne, Laurie and Colette, his brother Maurice, children Louise, Jean and Ross and by his close friend Bridie Sheehy.