Cork dad who died after wasp stings while gardening was 'relishing retirement' and family time

The dad-of-three who tragically died earlier this week after he was stung by wasps while gardening was ‘relishing his retirement’ and looking forward to spending more time with his family. Michael (Mike) Sheehan, 56, was cutting a hedge on Tuesday afternoon at his home in Carriganima in Macroom, Co Cork.

It is understood he may have disturbed a nest of wasps and was stung several times. A short time later he went into anaphylactic shock after what is believed he suffered an allergic reaction to the wasp stings.

A family member alerted emergency services and the Irish Community Air Ambulance from Rathcoole landed close to Mr Sheehan’s home. Medical crews were unable to revive him and he was pronounced dead at the scene.

Mr Sheehan’s body was removed from the scene to the morgue at Cork University Hospital where a postmortem is to be carried out to establish the exact cause of his death.

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Michael Sheehan, who is the beloved husband and best friend of Carmel and dad to Conor, Katie and Aine, had only retired from his job at Deloitte last year. A former work colleague said “He had so much to look forward to and was relishing his new life with more free time to spend with his family."

In the Condolences section on Mr Sheehan’s death notice on RIP.ie, the work colleague continued with: “It’s shocking to hear of his passing and sending my condolences to his family and friends who will miss him so much. He was a great character and had a super sense of humour. Rest in peace Mike.”

Another wrote: “Our heartfelt condolences to you Carmel, Conor, Katie and Áine on the passing of your beloved husband, father and friend Michael. Mike, as he was known to us, was one of a kind… we loved him.

“A brilliant mind and the kindest man. There are no words that can console you at this very sad time but please know we are thinking of you. Mike will be missed by many and remembered always. May he rest in peace.”

And another wrote: “My deepest sympathies to Mike's family at this very sad time. Mike was the king of the one liners when you'd meet him and always a pleasure to work with. He made time for people and his personable style was appreciated by everyone who met him. May he rest in peace.”

Mr Sheehan’s funeral Mass will take place on Friday, November 8 at 1.30pm in St Colman’s Church, Macroom followed by private cremation at 4pm in The Island Crematorium, Ringaskiddy.

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