Michael "Mike" Fogarty

Michael Fogarty
April 29, 1927 – October 21, 2025

Michael arrived in the United States from Knockshegowna, Co. Tipperary, in 1954 and made his home in the Bronx. In 1956, he married the love of his life, Margaret O'Sullivan Greene, a native of Kenmare, Co. Kerry. Together they shared 69 wonderful years of marriage, raising two beloved children, Brendan and Eileen, and later becoming the proud "Poppy" to three grandchildren - Richard, Christie, and Brooke - who brought him endless joy.

In his early years in Ireland, Mike was a remarkable athlete. He won five All-Ireland Cross Country Championships with his native Tipperary team between 1949 and 1953, and in 1953, he also captured a Junior All-Ireland Hurling Championship title with Tipperary. After immigrating to New York, Mike continued his hurling success with the Tipperary Hurling Club, winning four New York Hurling Championships. One of his proudest moments came in 1955, when he played at Croke Park in Dublin as part of the New York team competing against his native Tipperary.

Mike spent 25 years working in warehouse management with Merchant Refrigeration Company, Inc. in New York City, before retiring in 1990. A man deeply devoted to his community, Mike was an active member of St. Brendan's Parish in the Bronx, where he helped organize the Boy Scouts and the Catholic Youth Organization. He played a key role in reestablishing the Bedford Park Shamrock Club in 1968 and served on the steering committee of the Parents and Students of Irish Dance & Music Association. Among his many honors, one that held a special place in his heart was the plaque he received from the Tipperary Hurling Club in 1972.

When Mike and Margaret moved to Woodlawn in 1984, he continued his lifelong dedication to service. He became an active member of the Woodlawn Heights Taxpayers and Community Association, proudly singing the Irish and American anthems at community events, and served on the 47th Precinct Community Council. From 1994 to 1996, he was President of the Tipperary National and Benevolent Association, and in 2000, he was honored as the Bronx Irish Heritage Man of the Year aboard the World Yacht in Manhattan.

An avid singer, Mike's powerful voice became a cherished part of the Bronx Irish Heritage Week celebrations for over 25 years. In 2001, he and Margaret were named "Couple of the Year" on Irish Heritage Night. He also served as President of the Ancient Order of Hibernians, Division 9, Bronx County, where he helped organize successful concerts at Lehman College.

Mike's commitment to civic life extended beyond Irish organizations. He was an active member of the Benjamin Franklin Democratic Club and served on the Board of Elections for over 20 years. In 2006, he received the James Sullivan Merit Trophy for his outstanding contributions to community initiatives. From 2007 to 2008, he served as President of the United Irish Counties, Inc., and in 2009, he was appointed an Aide to the Grand Marshal of New York City's St. Patrick's Day Parade - a crowning honor for a proud Irishman.

Twelve years ago, Mike and Margaret moved to Bronxville, where they enjoyed their well-earned retirement surrounded by family. Mike will be deeply missed, but his legacy as a devoted husband, loving father, proud Irishman, and cherished "Poppy" will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

In the words that Mike was best known for - God bless.