MICHAEL

My brother slipped off years age
So I wrote these words because –
I wanted to remind myself
Who Michael really was.

Though low on understanding
Young Mick was big on fun
Like the day when playing cowboys
He coshed John with his gun.

No one ever forgot Mick’s birthday
Because as it neared the date
He would visit each of us in turn
To say “nearly February 8th!”

He loved all our invites out to tea
But when the food was done
It was on with coat and out the door
We called it “eat and run”.

He sang “Edelweiss” at all our dos
And he wouldn’t be denied
Then at weddings he’d expect a dance
And a photo of him and the bride.

He’ll have lots of sway in Heaven
We all know that, beyond reason
And the proof will come when we see we see Leeds
In the Premiership next season.

Mick never said a swear word
Got nasty or cruel or mean
He’d leap up to greet with such pleasure
Like others may welcome the Queen.

He loved his life. He loved his Mum,
His friends and family.
And every cat he ever met
Would settle on his knee.

My brother’s name was Michael
And he wasn’t very clever.
But that staunchly loyal, loving man
Is part of us forever.

Josie XX

[ This little poem is a tribute to Michael Dennis Gallagher.
Written by his sister Josie Midgley of Leeds.]

Page created 16 March 2006