RIP: Tributes paid to inspirational Limerick teacher Tony McKernan

THERE have been warm and widespread tributes to a Limerick teacher, who inspired generations of students and was known for his charm, wit and energy.

Tony McKernan, who lived in Hazel Hall, Monaleen, died peacefully this month at University Hospital Limerick.

A retired teacher, serving with distinction at Presentation Secondary School at Sexton Street in the city centre, students and former colleagues from through the years have remembered him fondly.

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“Such a witty, jovial, intelligent man. Time flew by in his company, and he was always so generous with that time,” one person wrote in an online tribute posted to the death notices website www.rip.ie.

One former student wrote: “He made physics my favourite subject and inspired me in my career in engineering.”

Another student added: “He taught me science and physics all through secondary school and so much of it has stuck with me

all these years later. He was one of my absolute favourite teachers and I will remember him fondly.”

A member of Presentation’s class of 1983 described Tony as: “a wonderful teacher and such a support to his students.”

“He could lighten the mood with his quick wit and humour. Those of us he taught will never forget him,” they added.

“He was a delightful and uplifting gentleman,” was the verdict of Fr Michael Wall, formerly of Mary Immaculate College.

Tony was a stalwart of the trade union movement, representing the Association of Secondary Teachers in Ireland (ASTI), where he held many roles.

His efforts in support of his colleagues have been remembered by many former officers of the teaching union.

“A stalwart trade unionist who gave so much help and assistance to his ASTI colleagues,” wrote one.

One of his colleagues in Presentation Secondary School also paid tribute to Tony online through www.rip.ie.

“He was always smiling, and always up for a laugh. He could sit at a piano and play without sheets of music, and he had a real talent for making up songs that had everyone laughing. He will always be remembered as a true legend in the school,” wrote Tony’s former colleague.

They also remembered the physics teacher for giving his time generously outside of school hours.

He is remembered for entertaining residents at The Park Nursing Home in Castletroy in particular.

“A vibrant and joyous teacher fondly remembered,” one other person added.

Tony passed away on May 4 last.

The beloved husband of Catherine, he is the dearly loved father of Declan and Orlagh.

He is sadly missed by his loving daughter-in-law Orla, son-in-law Rob, his adored grandchildren Donncha, Briain, Noah, Nicholas and Hayley, sisters Mary (Brick), Dympna (Daly), brother Conor, brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nephews, nieces, extended family and a wide circle of friends.

His funeral Mass took place at St John’s Cathedral last week.

Then he was laid to rest at St Nicholas’s Cemetery in Adare village.

May Tony rest in eternal and heavenly peace.