Obit: Joe Kerrins (Sept 2007)

Subject: JOE KERRINS
From: GUEST,Mike O'Leary-Johns
Date: 17 Sep 07 - 05:07 PM

JOE KERRINS..........RIP
It's with great saddness ;I have to pass on the news, of the death of Joe Kerrins.A Fine Singer and a Lovely man." Scowie" got in touch with me today[Monday]with the sad news.
Joe was born in County Limerick ; but made his home in Manchester many years ago.{about 40 yrs ago}
Our thoughts and prayers are with his wife AGNES ; and his family.
It is only in recent years that I got to know Joe ; but in that short time he proved to be a very good friend.
On a number of occaisions we shared a song and a glass at the session in the Black Horse at Limbrick {Chorley}.
The Funeral wil be held at St Dunstons RC Church {Moston : Manchester}.On Tuesday 25th Sept; 9.30am.His body will be recieved into Church the Night before.
Joe will be sorely missed by his Family ; all his freinds ; and by the Songs he sang.


Mike O'Leary-Johns.

Subject: RE: JOE KERRINS
From: DebC
Date: 17 Sep 07 - 05:18 PM

I met Joe at the National a few years back and we traded songs and a drink or two :-). He was a lovely man and a wonderful singer.

He will certainly be missed.

Deb Cowan
www.DebraCowan.com

Subject: RE: JOE KERRINS
From: GUEST,martin ellison
Date: 17 Sep 07 - 05:19 PM

May I also pass on my condolences.
I knew Joe only slightly from the same route as Mike and later at the Parkers Arms Saturday sessions in Chorley. A real character and a fine, powerful and commanding singer.
Scowie used to claim to be led astray by Joe - I'm not so sure about that, I think they egged each other on.
Sad to hear of his passing.
Martin Ellison

Subject: RE: JOE KERRINS
From: Mick Pearce (MCP)
Date: 17 Sep 07 - 05:22 PM

Sad to hear this too. I only met him once at the National, but spent a good evening singing in his company there. A loss of a very fine singer.

Mick

Subject: RE: JOE KERRINS
From: Emma B
Date: 17 Sep 07 - 05:23 PM

Oh I'm so very sorry.
He was a lovely man and a fine singer. I got to meet him and chat at several "Nationals" over the years and he was kind enough to record some of his songs for me.
My sincere condolences to his family

Subject: RE: Obit: Joe Kerrins (Sept 2007)
From: Herga Kitty
Date: 17 Sep 07 - 05:59 PM

I also met Joe at the National, and he very kindly sent me a couple of cassettes - one of him singing by himself, and another with Fred McCormick. I am very sorry to hear this news, and send my condolences to his family.

Kitty

Subject: RE: Obit: Joe Kerrins (Sept 2007)
From: collierlad
Date: 17 Sep 07 - 06:31 PM

What sad news Mike, not seen Joe for a couple of years (last time crossing the swing bridge in Whitby) but have great memories of singing with him in the Jolly Angler Manchester when visiting Billy Mac when he was on his Clock making course.
Was wondering what to listen to tonight so like you Kitty I'm going to dig out my copy of the cassette Joe gave me & raise a glass to one of folks larger than life characters.

Good to see you Mike back on the folk scene, you might like to know Angi Haywood is in Scarborough hospital with a broken bone or something.

Subject: RE: Obit: Joe Kerrins (Sept 2007)
From: Mary Humphreys
Date: 17 Sep 07 - 06:49 PM

Oh what dreadful news. Yet another of the great singers based in Manchester has gone.
He was a good friend to me right through the 1980s and 90s when we used to sing at the Unicorn in Manchester. We had many a good night in the Jolly Angler too.
He was always generous with his time and knowledge, and a lovely man to know. There was not an unkind bone in his body.
I would like to pass on my condolences to Agnes and his family.
I will remember him every time I take a glass of Jamesons.
Mary Humphreys

Subject: RE: Obit: Joe Kerrins (Sept 2007)
From: Barb'ry
Date: 17 Sep 07 - 06:56 PM

Fine singer and a really lovely man. We will miss his songs and his friendship. Our sympathies to Agnes, his family and friends.
Barb'ry and Andy

Subject: RE: Obit: Joe Kerrins (Sept 2007)
From: Dave Sutherland
Date: 18 Sep 07 - 02:47 AM

Booked him twice at Traditions at the Tiger; a fine singer and excelent company. Condolences from all at TATT.
Dave Sutherland

Subject: RE: Obit: Joe Kerrins (Sept 2007)
From: Mick Tems
Date: 18 Sep 07 - 03:42 AM

Another fine singer and a lovely man gone.

Subject: RE: Obit: Joe Kerrins (Sept 2007)
From: Fred McCormick
Date: 18 Sep 07 - 04:26 AM

I'm sorry. Words just fail me. A decenter person never walked the face of this earth.

Subject: RE: Obit: Joe Kerrins (Sept 2007)
From: RoyH (Burl)
Date: 18 Sep 07 - 05:22 AM

I join with all the above in appreciation of Joe and sadness at his passing. As Dr Price says, 'Another fine singer and a lovely man gone'   Condolences to his family. RIP Joe.

Subject: RE: Obit: Joe Kerrins (Sept 2007)
From: Fred McCormick
Date: 18 Sep 07 - 05:45 AM

If anyone wants to send Joe's family a card and needs his address, could they send me a PM. They were a grand crowd, every bit as lovely as Joe himself, and a few kind words could offer them a lot of comfort.

Subject: RE: Obit: Joe Kerrins (Sept 2007)
From: Mark Dowding
Date: 18 Sep 07 - 06:36 AM

Sorry to hear this sad news. I first met Joe at the Unicorn when Harry Boardman announced that "Joe will now give us a couple of songs". Up got this giant of a man with the most powerful voice I've heard but also one of the most sensitive where the song needed it.
Condolences to Joe's family.

Mark

Subject: RE: Obit: Joe Kerrins (Sept 2007)
From: Noreen
Date: 18 Sep 07 - 07:13 AM

I am sitting here at work with tears in my eyes having just read this horrible news.

Joe was one of the stalwarts of Manchester Comhaltas when I was growing up in Liverpool in the 70's and 80's and so I knew him from inter-branch concerts and fleadhs.

When I was taken to the Jolly Angler in 2000(?) after being out of the music scene for thirteen years or so at home with kiddies, it was lovely to meet up with Joe again and hear his wonderful singing.

Subject: RE: Obit: Joe Kerrins (Sept 2007)
From: GUEST,The black belt caterpillar wrestler
Date: 18 Sep 07 - 07:22 AM

Someone for whom the room fell silent whenever he sang, and have you noticed that effect of a superb singer where there is a silence after the end of the song and before the applause starts? It was there every time for him.
I'm dreading telling Anne the news when I get home, he was her favourite singer.

Robin Madge

Subject: RE: Obit: Joe Kerrins (Sept 2007)
From: 8_Pints
Date: 18 Sep 07 - 07:24 AM

I feel privileged that I was able to offer Joe transport and accommodation in our camper-van when he attended the National.

Song sessions at the Bay Horse, Chorley won't be the same without him.

Condolences to Agnes & family.

Bob

Subject: RE: Obit: Joe Kerrins (Sept 2007)
From: John Routledge
Date: 18 Sep 07 - 07:32 AM

Such a shock.
Farewell Joe - you were a true gentleman. You will be sorely missed for your generosity in sharing songs as well as your beautiful singing.
Condolences to Agnes and family.

Subject: RE: Obit: Joe Kerrins (Sept 2007)
From: Folkiedave
Date: 18 Sep 07 - 01:32 PM

He used to come to the carols at Dungworth for a while and he used to sing there too.

Shame.

Subject: RE: Obit: Joe Kerrins (Sept 2007)
From: GUEST,Dave Bishop
Date: 18 Sep 07 - 02:51 PM

This is very sad news indeed!

I first met Joe in the 70s at the 'Song Carriers' club in central Manchester. He was a larger than life character with a great voice and a great love of singing. He was also 'one of nature's gentleman' and I will miss him.

Rest in Peace, Joe.

Subject: RE: Obit: Joe Kerrins (Sept 2007)
From: John Routledge
Date: 19 Sep 07 - 12:32 PM

Would anyone wishing to attend Joe's funeral please note that it will be held at 9.30 am on Monday 24 September at St Dunstan's Church Worsley Avenue.

Subject: RE: Obit: Joe Kerrins (Sept 2007)
From: Mary Humphreys
Date: 19 Sep 07 - 12:33 PM

Does anyone know if there is a charity to which donations can be made in memory of Joe?

Subject: RE: Obit: Joe Kerrins (Sept 2007)
From: Fred McCormick
Date: 19 Sep 07 - 01:12 PM

John. Are you sure that's the correct day? According to Mike O'Leary's posting it is Tuesday September 25th.

Subject: RE: Obit: Joe Kerrins (Sept 2007)
From: GUEST,Brian Peters
Date: 19 Sep 07 - 01:54 PM

I hadn't seen Joe for a little while, so this came as a dreadful shock. Like Mary and Mark, I first met Joe at the Unicorn when we were all residents there. What a singer! 'Lord Gregory', 'Jolly Tinker', 'Waterford Boys'.... he was moving or rumbustuous by turns.

Joe attended the National as a punter a number of times, and I count it one of my prouder moments to have prevailed on the management there finally to invite him as a guest. I was sitting alongside Joe when he launched into his first song of the weekend, and the expressions of glee and wonderment on the faces of audience members who had never heard him before were a joy to behold.

He was generous to a fault and - as has been remarked - a real gentleman. I won't forget him.

Subject: RE: Obit: Joe Kerrins (Sept 2007)
From: John Routledge
Date: 19 Sep 07 - 03:38 PM

Yes Fred it is Monday 24th September as given in the Family Announcement on Manchester Evening News website and confirmed by the funeral directors.

Subject: RE: Obit: Joe Kerrins (Sept 2007)
From: GUEST,Mike Billington
Date: 19 Sep 07 - 05:14 PM

So sad to hear this news. I booked Joe when I ran the Briton's Protection Folk Club in Manchester many years ago. A lovely, lovely man with an awesome voice.

RIP Joe.

Mike.

Subject: RE: Obit: Joe Kerrins (Sept 2007)
From: Fred McCormick
Date: 20 Sep 07 - 04:23 AM

John,

Thanks for that. In fact anyone wanting to view the obituary notice can do so by going to http://www.legacy.com/ManchesterEveningNews/DeathNotices.asp and searching on Kerins.

There's also a guest book where people can leave their sentiments.



"Yes Fred it is Monday 24th September as given in the Family Announcement on Manchester Evening News website and confirmed by the funeral directors."

Subject: RE: Obit: Joe Kerrins (Sept 2007)
From: GUEST,Mary Humphreys at work
Date: 20 Sep 07 - 05:00 AM

This is a link to the Condolences Book at the Manchester Evening news.
Guest Book for Joe Kerins

Subject: RE: Obit: Joe Kerrins (Sept 2007)
From: GUEST,Mike O'Leary-Johns
Date: 20 Sep 07 - 07:53 AM

John ..... Thanks for making the correction to the Fueral details.
I spoke to Agnes on the phone and obviously made a mistake in taking the details down.

I am only sorry that I can't make it myself,I will be in Dublin that morning.
Mike.



On a side issue ; thanks "collierlad" { though I am not sure who Collierlad" is}for the note about Angie.I have been in touch with Mick.

Subject: RE: Obit: Joe Kerrins (Sept 2007)
From: GUEST,Scowie and Geof Miller
Date: 20 Sep 07 - 04:08 PM

Tonight is the night for the "Limbrick" Singers Session.
Where Joe was a frequent visitor.He graced the occaision with his Big smile,a song in his heart ;which he would be bursting to share with everyone.
He will be sorely missed not only for his contribution in Song.
But also for his appreciation and support of other singers.
We will lift a glass and our voices in his memory tonight and in the future.
Scowie and Geof.

Subject: RE: Obit: Joe Kerrins (Sept 2007)
From: Scooby Doo
Date: 21 Sep 07 - 08:13 AM

Refresh

Subject: RE: Obit: Joe Kerrins (Sept 2007)
From: Noreen
Date: 23 Sep 07 - 03:57 PM

RIP Joe.

Subject: RE: Obit: Joe Kerrins (Sept 2007)
From: Noreen
Date: 23 Sep 07 - 04:31 PM

Joe was so generous with his songs. He leant me his 3 song books at one time to copy out some words- not something that a lot of people would do. Some wonderful gems in there too.

It was lovely talking to Joe about the songs, he was so enthusiastic and interested in their history, and so encouraging to singers.

Joe is someone I thought would always be there when I managed to get back up to Limbrick.

Subject: RE: Obit: Joe Kerrins (Sept 2007)
From: GUEST,Darryl Edwards
Date: 24 Sep 07 - 12:53 PM

He was my Grandad and as everyone seems to know was a fantastic singer,

I appreciate all the lovely comments and will be passing this on to family members.

Thanks again

Subject: RE: Obit: Joe Kerins (Sept 2007)
From: GUEST,Mike Kerins
Date: 25 Sep 07 - 06:39 AM

I've just read all the fantastic comments about my dad and would like to thank you all. I have probably met a few of you over the years myself but there are only a few names i can put faces to. Nevertheless it is a comfort to know how well liked my dad was and the pleasure that his singing gave to so many.
Thanks again for your kind words.
Mike Kerins
PS If Stuart Compton? is reading this (the man with the ponytail and black hat)remind me of the website that you mentioned at the funeral and i'll try and look out that song for you if possible.MK

Subject: RE: Obit: Joe Kerrins (Sept 2007)
From: GUEST,niamh and aisling
Date: 25 Sep 07 - 11:20 AM

thank you everyone for the comments
me and aisling are his grandad and we will miss him A LOT.
it is a comfort to know that so many people loved him and
i don't know what i would have done without him
he has helped me a lot over the years and we all miss him very much!

niamh and aisling
            xxx RIP Grandad!

Subject: RE: Obit: Joe Kerrins (Sept 2007)
From: Fred McCormick
Date: 25 Sep 07 - 02:40 PM

Hi Mike and/or Stuart,

Would I be right in thinking that Stuart is interested in a song which Joe used to sing ? I knew his repertoire probably about as well as anyone (as well as anyone could know it that is. It was enormous.) If you can give me a title I've probably got the words and will be glad to pass them on.

Mike, it was good to see you and the rest of the family at the funeral, even if it was such a tragic occasion. I never knew anyone who loved living or got more out of life than your dad. If he hasn't started a singing session with the angels by now then I didn't know Joe Kerins.

"PS If Stuart Compton? is reading this (the man with the ponytail and black hat)remind me of the website that you mentioned at the funeral and i'll try and look out that song for you if possible.MK"

Subject: RE: Obit: Joe Kerrins (Sept 2007)
From: GUEST,Julie Kilburn(nee Kerins)
Date: 25 Sep 07 - 05:31 PM

I am finding it very difficult to come to terms with life without my dad and the day after he died I played a tape of him singing and looked at the sky and could'nt believe such a big voice and big heart is no longer in this world,I thought he was invincible! I am so very proud that people loved him so much and all our family is overwhelmed by the acknowledgements and cards.My dad worked hard,loved life and cared for us and I am very grateful to God that he was my father.One of my earliest memories is sitting on his knee as he tried to teach me one of his songs,I'm sure he sang everyday of his life!

Subject: RE: Obit: Joe Kerrins (Sept 2007)
From: GUEST,Fr. Robin
Date: 27 Sep 07 - 10:00 AM

I never saw Joe without a smile on his face. He was a jolly giant of a fella and I enjoyed our little chats and jokes each time I saw him at church. My deepest sympathy to all the family (who have remained in my prayers on a daily basis ever since I moved from St. Dunstan's)
A special Mass has been celebrated for him. May he rest in peace.

Subject: RE: Obit: Joe Kerrins (Sept 2007)
From: GUEST,Paul & Vi
Date: 29 Sep 07 - 02:51 PM

We met you at the Unicorn when Harry had it. We listened to you in awe, in my mind I still do. We enjoyed a glass with you, met your family, and you endeared us to you forever.
A simple, beautiful, man.
I'm proud to have met and listened to you.
paul

Subject: RE: Obit: Joe Kerrins (Sept 2007)
From: GUEST,lisa
Date: 13 Oct 07 - 05:27 PM

uncle joe. my hero and always loved, ur songs and stories always mesmerised us kids, rest in peace x x x

Subject: RE: Obit: Joe Kerrins (Sept 2007)
From: 8_Pints
Date: 14 Oct 07 - 08:27 AM

A memorial gathering is being planned to celebrate his life.

More details to follow ..............

Bob vG

Subject: RE: Obit: Joe Kerrins (Sept 2007)
From: GUEST,Mike, Pauline and Tim Kelly
Date: 16 Oct 07 - 05:08 PM

Our Brother in law and Uncle Joe, we miss him so much, his laughter, his song, he has been part of our lives for fifty years or more, we can never forget him, every time we raise a glass ,we say say cheers to Joe, thinking of him in our prayers.
Rest in peace Joe.

Subject: RE: Obit: Joe Kerrins (Sept 2007)
From: Noreen
Date: 17 Feb 08 - 05:29 PM

Just refreshed this thread to add the following link to Joe's Memorial Day:

Joe Kerins Memorial Day