RIP: 'A breath of fresh air' - Tributes pour in after death of much-loved Waterford woman

Tributes have been pouring in following the death of Waterford woman Michelle Power (née Roche), who passed away on January 31 after a long illness.

Michelle, of Geneva Barracks, Passage East, and formerly of Gracedieu, was late of Suir Engineering.

According to her RIP.ie death notice, Michelee was predeceased by her father Michael and is survived by her beloved husband Michael, her much-loved son Cian and his fiancée Ella, along with her mother Marie, sister Caroline (Frampton), brother David, their partners Rachel and David, and her extended family, neighbours and friends.

Her funeral took place on Tuesday, with Requiem Mass in St John The Baptist Church, Crooke, Passage East, followed by private cremation.

Her employer, Suir Engineering, paid a heartfelt tribute, saying: “It is with great sadness that we share the passing of our colleague and friend, Michelle Power, who passed away on Saturday, 31st January, after a long and courageous battle with illness.

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“Michelle was an amazing person who brought a smile to everyone’s face. She was incredibly kind, caring, and thoughtful; her warmth touched all who had the privilege of working with her.

“A valued member of the Accounts Payable team in Suir Engineering, Michelle was dedicated to her work and always willing to support others. She will be deeply missed by her colleagues and friends.

“Our thoughts and deepest sympathies are with her husband Michael, son Cian, her mother Marie, sister Caroline and brother David, along with her extended family, friends and work colleagues. May she rest in peace.”

Friends also shared emotional messages in her memory.

One wrote: “Sincere condolences to Michael, Cian and all of Michelle’s family and friends. Michelle’s beauty shone bright inside and out. I will always remember her infectious smile and bubbly nature. She made our days at school so much fun. May you rest in peace Michelle.”

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Another said: “My deepest condolences to Michelle’s family at this sad time. I had the pleasure of knowing Michelle through her time volunteering at Waterford Marine SAR and she was a wonderful lady, always smiling and full of positivity. May Michelle Rest in Peace”

A third tribute read: “Michelle was a breath of fresh air, a beautiful lady taken way too soon. So positive & cheerful during all her illness, an inspiration to us all. It was a privilege to have her as a friend, always put everyone before herself, a great listener and always came up with some very good advice.

“Her kindness to animals was a measure of her outstanding caring nature. I will treasure the lovely fond memories and they will stay with me forever,” they added.

Family flowers only were requested, with donations, if desired, to the Oak Ward, South East Palliative Care.