An Ode to Michael-John

Remembering my dear Dad on Father's day. Michael-John Foley grew up on a farm in county Mayo, Ireland. He walked bare foot across the fields to school. He was my hero.

I remember your favourite colour was blue

That you liked crew neck jumpers & a dapper shoe

I know you had your fair share of strife

& that West Brom’s performance was the bane of your life

Never knowingly short of a yarn, your stories always had me gripped

Out for a stroll in Bridie’s field

A convincing ghost – you had us all tricked!

Poaching salmon on your neighbour’s land, who today would understand?

Foraging barefoot you brought home the grub

Your mother was proud, ‘till you became an honorary Dub!

You strutted your stuff on a Saturday night

The clubs of Camden provided much needed respite

Travelling around from town to town

The cold dank digs didn’t get you down

The crib you made with your own bare hands

For me that was Christmas, magical & clever

The bedtime stories you created

Enchanting & funny. Thanks belated

The Sunday roast you always cooked

Because, you said, “The Shelbourne is booked”!

Hide & seek in Phoenix Park

Picnics & caravans, up with the lark

Behind the curtain in economy class

You said, “I have a dream” & the passengers laughed

In Bogota, pursued in the street

Wearing a Chicago bulls cap – not exactly discreet!

There are those consumed by bitterness & anger

& there are those, like you Dad, who rise above rancour

A gentleman – you never complained

Whatever your burden you bore it alone

Your grandsons meant the world to you, in them your legacy lives on

Last Christmas with Archie was so very special,

Memories abound to look back upon

When mam died you were broken hearted

Death did you part, now at last reunited

A loving father right to the end

Determined to shield us from what no-one could mend

You died like you lived, with dignity & grace

No-one can ever fill your space

Wise, witty, warm & true

Our lives won’t be the same without you

Michael-John, you’ll be in our hearts forever

Memories of you we’ll always treasure