Deep sadness at passing of renowned Mayo businesswoman
Martina McHale played a key role in the growth of McHale Engineering.
A leading Mayo employer is mourning the passing of one of its founders.
Martina McHale (née Garvey), of Tumneenaun, Clonbur, Co Galway and formerly of Kilmaine, Co Mayo, passed away on Sunday, August 2nd, at Galway Hospice.
Martina founded McHale Engineering in South Mayo with her husband Padraic and brother-in-law Martin in 1986 and served as one of three directors for over 40 years.
In an online tribute, the company, which has grown into a leading international manufacturer of specialist agricultural farm machinery, stated:
"From the early days, Martina always worked hard across the business, doing whatever needed to be done to make the business successful. Her attention to detail was immense and she often picked up on things that no one else would have seen and made sure those details were addressed.
"She was involved in every important decision and her input was invaluable, especially in the early years where she was involved in the selection of key personnel, many of whom became very close friends over the years. Martina’s influence is seen across the team who built McHale into the company it is today. She treated everyone as part of the family and made sure they were all looked after, like one of her own.
"Martina took great pride in what she built with Padraic and Martin and loved to meet customers and old friends as part of her daily life or travels.
"She also enjoyed watching the next generation of people coming into the business, often sons, daughters or other relatives of people she had known and worked with down through the years.
"Over time Martina’s counsel was invaluable and like many family businesses she provided invaluable advice and support around the kitchen table or quietly after an event.
"As a company, we are deeply saddened by Martinas passing, but are fully committed to continue to build the business in her honour on the strong foundation and principles she helped establish.
"May her gentle soul rest in peace."
Martina is survived by her husband Padraic, sons Paul and Pat, daughters-in-law Donna and Nicole; adored grandchildren Owen, Emma, Rían, Matthew, Charlotte and Finnian; sisters Mary, Gerardine and brother Colm, mother-in-law Nora, sisters-in-law, brothers-in-law, nieces, nephews, extended family, neighbours and a wide circle of friends.
Reposing at Kilmaine Community Centre (F31 RC95) on Wednesday, August 5th, from 3pm until 7pm, with private removal to Martina’s home.
Requiem Mass at 12 noon, in St Patrick’s Church, Kilmaine (F31 A348) on Thursday, August 6th, with burial immediately afterwards in the New Cemetery, Kilmaine.
