Well known Galway native who set up one of Ireland's biggest companies dies
The businesswoman served as a director at the company for over 40 years
The founder of one of the biggest companies in Ireland has sadly died with tributes flowing for the trailblazer.
Martina McHale founded McHale Engineering over four decades ago with her husband Padraic and brother in law Martin in 1986.
The businesswoman - who was nee Garvey from Clonbur in Galway and formerly of Kilmaine in Mayo - served as a director at the company for over 40 years.
The company confirmed the sad news on Monday saying that Martina would do “whatever needed to be done” to make the business successful.
McHale’s said: “Her attention to detail was immense and she often picked up on things that no one else would have seen and made sure those details were addressed.
“She was involved in every important decision and her input was invaluable, especially in the early years where she was involved in the selection of key personnel, many of whom became very close friends over the years.”
The company said Martina’s influence is seen across the team who built McHale into the company it is today.
They continued: “She treated everyone as part of the family and made sure they were all looked after, like one of her own.
“Martina took great pride in what she built with Padraic and Martin and loved to meet customers and old friends as part of her daily life or travels.
“She also enjoyed watching the next generation of people coming into the business, often sons, daughters or other relatives of people she had known and worked with down through the years.
“Over time Martina’s counsel was invaluable and like many family businesses she provided invaluable advice and support around the kitchen table or quietly after an event.”
The company statement finishes by saying: “We are deeply saddened by Martina’s passing, but are fully committed to continue to build the business in her honour on the strong foundation and principles she helped establish. May her gentle soul rest in peace.”
Her funeral details can be found here.