Tributes pour in for Waterford dad-of-four who died of cardiac arrest in Spain

Waterford native Michael Grant was on holiday with his family when he tragically died of a cardiac arrest on Monday, July 1 in Magaluf.

An autopsy found no evidence pointing to the 45-year-old’s death being related to injuries which police believe he had suffered earlier in the evening.

Initially, cops suspected he may have been knocked over by a car.

However, the Guardia Civil’s Judicial Police, who are in charge of the investigation, have now concluded that there was no hit-and-run.

He leaves behind a wife, Leanne and four children, Kayley, Niamh, Shay and Sofia.

A physiotherapist and the founder of St Joseph’s Juvenile Academy, Michael was well known and highly regarded in the southeast of the country.

Since the tragic news broke, tributes have been pouring in for the much respected community man.

Mr Grant, who was buried on July 12, has been hailed as a “dear friend” in a tribute by St Joseph’s AFC Waterford football club, where Michael coached.

“As many of you know, Michael was more than just a coach to us – he was a beloved friend and as a club and for his family we need time to process this devastating loss,” the club stated.

“Michael was an integral part of our community, and his absence will be profoundly felt.

“He was not just a coach but a mentor and a friend to all the children and adult members at St Joseph’s.

“More recently his dedication, passion, and love for the kids were evident in everything he did.

“He cherished every one of them, and I’m sure you will all agree that his impact was immeasurable.

“Michael, sleep well, dear friend. You will be missed forever, but your legacy and the love you shared will never be forgotten and will always live on in our club.”

RIP.ie has been flooded with messages about Mr Grant.

“I knew Michael as a stalwart of St. Joseph’s, always around the ground on a Saturday morning and sometimes serving us coffee at the hatch, having the craic with everyone.

“I knew him also as an excellent physio. He was a remarkable person who really understood people, physically and psychologically.

“He always knew the right thing to say and the right advice to give, whether it was serious or to get a laugh out of you. I think he had life figured out better than most of us ever will.

“My deepest sympathies to his family,” wrote one.

“Michael or Granter as we more fondly knew him was a larger than life friend who always had your back. His sense of humour always had you laughing.

“He always looked out for others. We will miss you. Thanks for everything Michael,” wrote another.

“Sometimes life is so unfair, Michael was a character, never passed without a chat and a bit of banter, always left you with a smile on your face.

“He’ll be sorely missed. Rest easy Michael. Condolences to all the family,” said another.

Michael’s daughter received a standing ovation for her speech at her dad’s funeral.

“You are my hero, you are my home, my safe place and my protector in this world,” she began.

“Your love and guidance has shaped me into the girl I am today in ways that I can never fully express… You were taken from us too soon and I never got the chance to give all that love back to you for all you did for us. We just thought we had a lifetime left,” said Kayley.

“It makes me feel so angry. But Dad, I know in my heart the pain and the sadness felt by all in this room doesn’t even compare to the pain you feel in your heart for not being here to love, support, protect, care and be there for your family.

“Dad I want you to know it’s ok. I want you to know I want you to feel peace in your heart. You didn’t deserve this.

“You’re so generous, thoughtful and caring and the sacrifices you’ve made for us and the strength you’ve always shown is and will always be a true inspiration.

“It was so easy to love you… We will continue to make you so proud, to carry your legacy and everything we do will be for you.

“We know you will be there every step of the way, on every side-line, in our home and in our hearts forever.”