Ballina mourns a true legend
The late Michael 'Bunny' Boland.
There was deep sadness felt in Ballina and Enniscrone following the passing of Michael ‘Bunny’ Boland’, Rehins, Foxford Road, and formerly of Carragun, Corballa, Enniscrone.
Michael, aged 91, died peacefully at Mayo Hospice surrounded by his loving family. He was predeceased by his father John, mother Margaret, brothers Padraic, Tomas, Sean, Atty and sister Maura O’Dowd. He is deeply mourned by his wife Anne, their eight children, Noelle, Siobhan, Orlaith, Michelle, Michael, Anthony (Tony), Niall and Dervla, 14 grandchildren, his brothers Gerry and Gay, sons-in-law, daughters-in-law, sisters-in-laws, extended family, friends and neighbours.
Michael, or 'Bunny' as he was known to everyone, was a well-respected and much-loved businessman who played an important role in many different local industries in Ballina throughout the 20th century and into the 21st century.
Bunny and his wife Anne opened the Harrier’s Haunt Bar in Ballina in the 1960s and later went on to open a furniture shop. Bunny’s furniture auctions became the stuff of legend in Ballina thanks to his quick wit and turn of phrase. He later became a regular sheep auctioneer at Ballina and Bangor Marts.
Bunny was an avid hunter and regularly took part in the meetings of the Mayo Harriers group. He also played a role in the development of the Ballina Agricultural Show and served as the show president. The show committee paid a glowing tribute to Bunny.
“Michael was not only a dedicated member, he also had a keen eye for a good broodmare. The passion for the show, commitment to the community, and tireless efforts in making every event a success will be deeply missed.
“On behalf of the entire Ballina Show community, we extend our heartfelt condolences to Michael's family and loved ones during this difficult time.”
A poignant funeral mass took place yesterday (Monday) at St Muredach’s Cathedral. Members of Bunny’s family brought symbols to the altar celebrating his rich life. They included his gavel for his love of auction, his hunting crop for his love of hunting and the outdoors, his rosary beads for his great belief in prayer and especially Our Lady, his Connemara Pony registration book for his love of all horses and his hat for his love of style.
Fr Kieran Holmes paid warm tribute to a man whose "life intertwined with so many others" in the Ballina and Enniscrone area.
“Bunny has a wonderful story to tell God this morning because he certainly lived life to the full. He was one of life’s true and great characters.
“Bunny was determined to build things and make possible the sometimes impossible,” he said.
His son Michael Boland said that his father worked hard but was first and foremost a family man.
“He worked hard his whole life and instilled that work ethic in all of us.
“Dad was especially proud of his 14 grandchildren, he loved all of their unique personalities and they are now a part of his legacy.
“Dad was a simple man and family was everything to him and we’ll always remember his wide smile.”
Burial took place afterwards at Leigue Cemetery in Ballina.
May he rest in peace.
