Worksop: Tributes for former Tigers’ footballer and talented solicitor who died aged 79

Michael Tracey was born in Lancaster in 1935 and moved to Worksop around thirty years later.

A keen sportsman, he was capped by England as an amateur footballer and won a midland league championship medal with Worksop Town in the mid-60s.

He then changed tack and became head of his own firm of solicitors, named Tracey, Barlow & Furniss, which is still running in Worksop and Retford today.

Ian White, one of Michael’s closest friends, said: “He was extremely talented. Michael’s commitment to his clients was legendary, and he was always prepared to go the extra mile. He was dedicated to the pursuit of justice.”

Michael later gave up his legal practice and relocated to Donegal, where often gave legal advice to others for free despite his deteriorating health.

He passed away on 3rd May.

Mr White added: “Michael was a man of great integrity, and a true and loyal friend who will be greatly missed.”

“His latter years were characterised by constant pain and ill-health, which he faced with great courage, sustained by the support of his family, friends and Catholic faith.”

“The packed church at Meenacross, in Donegal, paid fulsome tribute to a very special man.”

Michael is survived by his wife of 53 years, Kitty, and his ten surviving children, John, Alex, George, James, Patrick, Kevin, Kathleen, Mary, Tricia and Siobhan.

He also leaves behind 26 grandchildren and two great grandchildren.

Three children, Francesca, Dominic and Joseph pre-deceased him.