John Cawley

Kieran Cawley’s life took root in the town of Ballinrobe in County Mayo, Ireland.  He was a beloved figure in his hometown and quite popular with all.  Kieran distinguished himself as a gifted athlete in both basketball and Gaelic football where he earned the nickname “The Bullet” for his remarkable speed on the pitch.  It was in Ireland that he forged friendships that have lasted to this day.  Without a drop of envy, his brothers and sisters would often share that he was his dear mother Kitty’s “favorite.”

Moving to the US in 1982 brought new work and adventure.  As he built his life, family, and business, he unknowingly grew a legion of fans who often echoed—one after another—the same sentiments about him: “Kieran is the best,” “Kieran is a gentleman,” “no one is better than Kieran,” “Kieran has a heart of gold,” and “everyone loves Kieran.” All of these things are true.  He was always so quick with a smile or a hand to help,

Kieran was incredibly proud of his daughter Allison and the woman she has grown to be, and also of the life and home he built with his wife and love of his life, Gabby.  Kieran adored his entire family and had uniquely special relationships with each of his siblings.  He was loved and admired by his many nieces and nephews both in the US and Ireland.

He had a great sense of humor and mischief; his artwork on the hedge of a Donegal fan with the Mayo colors has become a local legend.  In later years, his friends lovingly referred to him as “The Silver Fox.”  While his chosen profession was landscaping, he was incredibly gifted when it came to math.  He also would quote Shakespeare from time to time.

His go-to phrases of "You're looking good, girl" and "How you doing, girlfriend?" were part of his inherent charm. He had a wonderful way of making those around him feel good about themselves.  He was selfless and kind, big and strong—a giant of a man in stature and heart.

Through Gabby, he gained a connection to the autistic community and developed some truly meaningful friendships.  He shared in some wonderful experiences with these new friends and would often get teary-eyed with pride when hearing of their accomplishments and successes.

Even when facing a terrible disease, he looked to put others at ease.  He did not crumble; he showed amazing strength and grace that enabled those around him to be stronger than they imagined they could ever be.  To the end, he was brave, loving, and a bit stubborn.

Kieran’s light was immeasurable, his goodness is tattooed in all of our hearts, and his legacy eternally forged in our minds.  Most importantly, he knew that he was deeply loved.

The Irish for Mayo is Mhaigh Eo and translates to “Plain of the Yew Trees.” The yew tree is one of the few evergreen trees native to Ireland.  Striking how Kieran’s roots define the man he became.  A true man of the earth, connected not only by profession to the land as a talented landscaper, but also a person of great strength, depth, and organic goodness. He found happiness in the simple things: family, friends, a good steak, a few drinks, nature, his dogs Penny and Reggie, sports, cutting his own grass, and a bit of craic.

And, like those rare Irish evergreens, he was fixed. He was a constant friend to all who knew him—loyal, perennial, and everlasting.

In a time of great uncertainty in the world, Kieran is a steadfast reminder of the values that matter most. For...”What is success?  To laugh often and much; to win the respect of intelligent people and the affection of children; to earn the appreciation of honest critics and endure the betrayal of false friends; to appreciate the beauty; to find the best in others; to leave the world a bit better, whether by a healthy child, a garden patch or a redeemed social condition; to know even one life has breathed easier because you have lived. This is to have succeeded!” -Ralph Waldo Emerson

Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam. (May he rest in peace.)

Kieran was the beloved husband of Gabrielle Robertson-Cawley; the loving father of Allison Cawley; the dear brother of Maureen Nevin (Martin), Gerry Cawley (Anita), Mike Cawley (the late Carmel), Helen Malone (John) and Niall Cawley.  He is predeceased by his parents, Michael and Catherine (nee Staunton) Cawley.

In lieu of flowers, we kindly ask that you contribute to the Catherine Violet Hubbard Animal Sanctuary https://cvhfoundation.org/.  Kieran and Catherine were kindred spirits when it came to a love of animals and nature.  He rescued many baby rabbits, squirrels, and birds during his time, awaited the arrival of the hummingbirds every year, and lovingly tended to his butterfly garden.  And, Catherine’s family ties to the Moran family of Ballinrobe make this an even more special tribute.

Due to current restrictions of public gatherings, a celebration of life will be held at a later date.