Shockwaves across Waterford as local man dies abroad

The local community is today (Monday) coming to terms with the heartbreaking news that well-known father of four Michael Grant, who lived in Pinewood Drive, Hillview, has died suddenly whilst holidaying with family and friends in Spain.

Michael, who was a well-respected physiotherapist, is believed to have taken ill in the early hours of this morning after jetting out on a family holiday over the course of the weekend. He was 45.

The son of Sam and Marie Grant, he was well-known in local sporting circles for his work with St. Joseph’s Football Club and Mount Sion GAA Club. He was also a physio for a number of the Waterford hurling teams in recent times.

Only recently Michael managed his beloved St. Joseph’s where he was the Juvenile academy founder to win the Matt Stafford Division 4 Cup final when the local club beat Dungarvan United in the final at Ozier Park.

In a statement, St. Joseph's AFC said that they were "shocked" at the passing of their "dearest club member and head child coach."

They added: "As many of you know, Michael was more than just a coach to us—he was a beloved friend and as a club and for his family we need time to process this devastating loss.

"Michael was an integral part of our community, and his absence will be profoundly felt. He was not just a coach but a mentor and a friend to all the children and adult members at St Joseph’s. More recently His dedication, passion, and love for the kids were evident in everything he did. He cherished every one of them, and I’m sure you will all agree that his impact was immeasurable.

"We extend our heartfelt condolences to Michael’s family: his wife Leanne, their children Kayleigh, Niamh, Shay and Sophia , his parents Sam and Marie, his brothers, sisters and extended family. Our thoughts and prayers are with them during this incredibly difficult time. We also want to acknowledge the grief and shock that our own children and members are experiencing. Michael was a significant part of their lives, and his loss is deeply personal to each of us."

The club added: "In the coming days, we will share more information regarding any plans to honor Michael’s memory. We appreciate your patience and understanding as we navigate through this challenging period. Michael, sleep well, dear friend. You will be missed forever, but your legacy and the love you shared will never be forgotten and will always live on in our club."

In his death notice on rip.ie, Michael will be sadly missed by his heartbroken wife Leanne, his four children Kayley, Niamh, Shay and Sofia, his devastated parents Michael (Sam) and Marie (Grant), sisters Jeannette, Deborah and Deirdre, brothers and best friends Brian and Alan, his parents-in-law Luke and Tina (Nolan), brothers-in-law Les and Shane, Shane’s wife Trish, sisters-in-law Lilian, Sinead and Catherine, Catherine’s partner Gordon.

He also be always remembered and forever loved by his ten nieces and nephews, godchildren, uncles, aunts, cousins, extended family, relatives, neighbours and his wide circle of wonderful friends. May he rest in peace.