Tributes paid to 'dedicated' Blonde cattle breeder
The Irish Blonde Cattle Society said it has "lost one of its most dedicated ambassadors".
Michael Creed, of Derryleigh, Inchigeela, Co. Cork, formerly of Illaninagh, Ballingeary, passed away peacefully at the Mercy University Hospital, Cork on June 7, 2026.
In a post on social media, the Blonde d'Aquitaine breed society extended its condolences.
The society paid tribute to Michael, saying he "devoted a lifetime to the promotion and advancement of the Blonde breed" in Ireland.
"Long before establishing his own pedigree herd, Michael worked tirelessly to raise the profile of Blonde cattle," it said.
"Through his strong relationships with mart managers, he successfully advocated for the inclusion of Blonde classes at weanling shows and sales, ensuring the breed received the recognition it deserved.
"His efforts were often rewarded in the show ring, where he regularly won these classes with his own outstanding stock."
Michael Creed served on the council of the breed society for most of his membership.
At the time of his passing, he was serving as vice-chairman.
"His wisdom, dedication, and friendship will be greatly missed by his fellow council members and by the wider Blonde community," the society said.
'Passionate advocate'
In 1998, Michael founded the Derryleigh Blondes pedigree herd with the purchase of four pedigree females.
"From that foundation, he developed a highly respected herd and became a familiar and successful figure on the show circuit," the society said.
Whether exhibiting pedigree or commercial cattle, Michael was a regular prize winner, including achieving the prestigious title of overall breed champion at the Tullamore Show on several occasions.
Michael was a "passionate advocate" for promoting the Blonde breed to the wider farming community.
"He firmly believed the breed should have a strong presence at the National Ploughing Championships each September and dedicated countless hours every year to making that happen," the society said.
"From erecting the stand and transporting gates to organising livestock displays, he undertook every task with enthusiasm and commitment.
"Visitors were always assured of a warm welcome, and more often than not, Michael supplied several of the cattle on display.
"These events were very much a family effort, with every member of the Creed family playing their part."
Throughout all of this, the society said that Michael was supported by his "devoted wife, Kathleen, who worked alongside him on the farm, created a welcoming home, and shared in his commitment to attending shows and promoting the breed".
'Natural people person'
The society said Michael was a "natural people person", who "built lasting relationships wherever he went".
"Whether meeting prospective customers at marts, shows, or the ploughing championships, he had a remarkable ability to connect with people.
"Many who initially came to purchase cattle became regular customers and lifelong friends.
"His genuine warmth, generosity, and hospitality were central to his success as a breeder and promoter of the Blonde breed."
The society said that Michael faced illness with the "same courage, determination, and positivity that characterised every aspect of his life".
Requiem mass will take place tomorrow, Wednesday, June 10 at 2:00p.m at St. Finbarr and the Holy Angels Church, Inchigeela.
Funeral afterwards will be to the local cemetery.
