Irishman who died in Turkey holiday tragedy previously won millions in Lotto

A man who won over £4 million in the Irish lotto almost 30 years ago tragically died while on holiday in Turkey.

Michael Kelly, from Birr, Co Offaly, died on Thursday in a road traffic incident.

It is understood that he owns a villa in the country, and was there with his wife Ann, and their daughter.

Known affectionately as ‘Mouse’, local Sinn Fein Councillor Sean Maher said he was well-known in Birr.

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He added: “I would like to offer my condolences to the family, I would’ve known them very well. He is sadly missed. He was always pottering around, he would sit down and have a chat with you anywhere in the town.

“It is a big shock to the community to hear it, he is a well-got person in the town, so it was a big shock to the community as a whole.”

Tributes have been paid on social media for the Offaly man. One person wrote: “Very sad news. Condolences to the family. Rest in peace Mouse, a genuine gentleman and a great Birr and Offaly supporter.”

Another said: “The light of heaven to u mouse. Devastated for your heartbroken family. Condolences to you all. Rest in heavenly peace.”

While a third person commented: “Deepest condolences to Ann and the Kelly family. Very sad news. Thinking of you all during this terrible time.”

Aged in his 60s, Mr Kelly had five children, Edward, Jonathan, Donna and twins Lisa and Celina.

Mr Kelly and his wife Ann won the fourth biggest ever prize in the Lotto at the time in 1997.

They celebrated their £4,094,789 win with a £5,000 party in their hometown. Speaking to media at the time, the couple admitted they had some fears about winning such a large amount of money. Ms Kelly added: “Hopefully we will all still be happy together”.

A notice on RIP.ie reads: “The death has occurred of Michael ” Mouse” Kelly Ballaghanoher, Banagher Road, Birr, Co. Offaly, on July 4th, 2024, (tragically), whilst holidaying in Turkey. Funeral arrangements to follow. May he Rest in Peace.”

A spokesperson for the Department of Affairs confirmed the death, saying: “The Department of Foreign Affairs is aware of the case and is providing consular assistance.

“As with all consular cases, the Department does not comment on the details of any specific case.”

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