Everyone associated with Crossmolina Deel Rovers GAA are saddened to learn of the passing of legendary Crossmolina and Mayo GAA figure, Dr Mickey Loftus on Saturday the 22^nd April 2023. He was 93 years of age.

Doctor Mickey was the most instrumental figure ever in the history of the Crossmolina Deel Rovers GAA Club.

He is our current Club Patron (2008 to date), he served as President (1997 to 2000) and as Chairperson on two occasions between 1997 and 2000 and previously between 1964 and 1984.

One of Dr Mickeys proudest moments was the official opening of the St Tiernan’s Sports’ Centre grounds on 9^th June 1968. During the ensuing years further developments followed under his guidance, and the efforts of many club officials and supporters. The press rooms and referees changing rooms (1971), a pitch and putt course (1971), tennis courts (1973), The Tiernan Reilly Stand (1982), the Community Centre and squash court (1979), swimming pool (1982) children’s playground (1984) and a second playing field (1984).

He represented our club on the playing field at every level and was part of Mayo Championship winning junior (1947, 1955, 1962) and senior (1949) teams.

Born in August 1929, Dr Mickey Loftus had a varied and prominent sporting and professional career. He played minor, junior and senior for Mayo, appearing in the All-Ireland Minor Final of 1947 and winning Junior All-Irelands with the county in 1950 and again in 1957, as well as being togged on the day Mayo won their third Senior All-Ireland in 1951.

He also won two Sigerson medals while studying medicine at UCG.

As well as playing, Dr Mick was a notable referee and he officiated at the 1965 and 1968 All-Ireland football finals. He then moved into administrative roles within the association, serving as Connacht Council Chairperson and also Chairperson of the Centenary Committee.

When Centenary Year came around in 1984, he was elected at that year’s Congress as the 28th President of the GAA, taking office in 1985 and serving until 1988. He remains the only Mayo person to serve as GAA President.

Dr. Mickey was a firm believer in healthy living and remaining active at all ages. He was instrumental in the establishment of the intercounty Masters (Over 40s) Championship. The cup awarded to the All Ireland Masters winning team was recently named after him in recognition of his efforts. In 2004 Dr Mickey attended the Huntsman World Senior Games, where he entered three events 1,000m, 2,000m and 5,000m, in the 75-79 years age group. What ensued surpassed his wildest dreams as he secured two gold and one silver medal in personal best times. 

In his professional life, he had an equally distinguished career. He ran a medical practice in North Mayo and also served as coroner for the area for many years.

Funeral arrangements for Dr Mickey Loftus;

Peacefully at the Moy Ridge nursing home, Ballina surrounded by his family.

Predeceased by his parents Martin & Mary, stepmother Mai, brothers Dr. Benny, Marty, Kevin, Dan & sister Ettie.

Dr. Mickey Loftus, (former president of the GAA & Coroner of North Mayo), deeply mourned by his loving wife Edie, children Michael, Orla, Patrick & Dr. Joe, daughters-in-law Dr. Eleanor, Monica & Jordan, son-in-law Donal, his 10 grandchildren Rosanna, Mikey, Patrick, Kevin, Claire, Dr. Katie, Joe, Sam, McKenzie & Ben, brothers Dr. Declan, Finian, Dr. Colm, Shane, Liam & sister Siobhan, brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nephews, nieces, his extended family, neighbours, many friends who knew & loved Dr. Mickey within medical & GAA communities.

Go ndéana Dia trócaire ar a anam gaelach.

Reposing at Crossmolina Deel Rovers GAA Club, St. Tiernan’s Park, Ballina Rd, Crossmolina (Eircode F26 ED39) on Monday evening from 4pm until 7pm.

Funeral will arrive to St. Tiernan's Church, Crossmolina on Tuesday for Requiem Mass at 12 noon followed by burial in Crossmolina Cemetery.

Dr. Mickey’s funeral Mass will be live streamed on www.churchtv.ie/crossmolina

Family flowers only. Donations if desired to the Moy Ridge nursing home, patient comfort fund C/o McGowan’s funeral home, Ballina.

Ar Dheis Dé go raibh a anam Dilis