Wednesday, April 27, 2011
On behalf of the Mc Dermott family in Donegal, Ireland I sympathize with Irmas immediate family Denis, Martin and Irma's brother, Alan,
As a young Deacon in Cape Coral I was blessed to make the acquaintance of Irma and Patrick Macken. We met at the Santa Barbara Nursing Home, St Andrew's parish. Irma spent her life caring for people and reaching out to assist wherever there was an opening. Irma was very faithful to her friends and she had a particular love for a little Irish lady of the name,KItty Kelly from Mayo in Ireland.Kitty was constantly praying for everyone and indeed our names too were on the daily list, I can assure you that kitty kelly and Irma are rejoicing this day in heaven.
From Cape Coral to Ocala, and Majestic Oakes. Sure I spent many a vacation there; and indeed lapped up the tremendous hospitality that was on offer. Irma was an excelent cook and loved to entertain and be the focus of attention. Patrick as always was deeply in love with Irma and Irma always made sure to look after Patrick's needs. Yes Irma talked much of her family ,' her boys ' and indeed Rosemary and Marika were mentioned too. Irma was a faithful member of Queen of Peace church and was actively involved in the church community.
My enduring memory of Irma will be vacation times in Ocala. Having arrived from Ireland and suffering the effects of jet-lag, just when I was settling down to sleep;there would be a knock on the bedroom door. " Father, your breakfast is on the table " Yes from breakfast at 6am to late morning I would be taken to church, recite the Divine Mercy prayers, Rosary, Adoration before the Blessed sacrament, celebration of Eucharist with Fr. O'Doherty, and a good fifteen minute sermon too.I would meet all Irmas friends and of course she was so proud to have me around. And isn't it the truth ? We have heard it so often. 'You'll be missed when your gone." or " It's only now that we appreciate you"
Since Irma moved south to take up residence in her new surroundings; sadly I have not been back to see her, but kept contact with Irma by phone. She would always inquire of my health and keeping the weight down!!. Always asking when I might make it back to Florida.
By phone, though her voice was frail at times, and in spite of her poor health,her memory was good and she always sounded cheerful, Whenever the conversation was slack as often would happen, sure there was always much to speak of the anticts of Tabby!!
Irma loyal friend and adopted grandma I will never forget you, keep me in your prayers, rest in peace, Love and Prayers, Mass has been offered for the repose of Irma and deceased members of the macken and martin families.
Always remembered xx
Fr.Patrick Mc Dermott,
Jacinta and Kathleen
Ocala (352) 414-4206 | The Villages (352) 561-8048 
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