A tribute to a much-loved Main Street Businessman - Martin Grenham

Martin with his Aunt Margaret (RIP) and his Mum Theresa

Martin and his late wife Mary

The New Year celebrations were overshadowed locally, as news trickled through of one of Main Street’s prominent businessmen’s sudden shock passing. Martin Grenham was one of twins (brother Peter) born to parents Teresa and Joseph on 31st March 1950, who ran a prominent Bar, Grocery and Undertakers from their Main Street premises. Martin spent many summers as a young child in his Aunt Margaret’s farm in Castlepollard (including a long stay after he broke his leg chasing Peter around the kitchen table).

He attended St.Grellan’s N.S. but was also known to hide behind Hill’s sweetshop for an odd day instead. After his secondary education in “The Tech”, he worked as manager in the Sheaf of Wheat, Coolock with his brother John. While he had dreamt of becoming a guard he changed his mind instead he returned to work in the family business. This proved to be a wise move as he soon met his beloved wife Mary in 1974. Two years later on the 15th of June 1976 they married in Athleague.​  A year later Martin Junior arrived, coincidentally the same day Elvis Presley departed! Two years later, Tracy completed their happy family. ​

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Martin and his son Martin Jr

He worked tirelessly in Grenham’s bar for years; always to be found with a cloth in his hand cleaning. His hobbies included watching cowboy and true crime movies, listening to country and western and traditional Irish music. His daily routine in later years included caring for his adored granddaughter Ava.

Many people have said they knew they were late for work when they saw Martin’s car outside the school in the mornings. He was an invaluable help and companion to his nephew-in-law Niall. His love and care for his wife Mary during her illness was his main priority, often sleeping in a chair beside her hospital bed. Her loss, broke Martin’s heart and he would often visit her grave daily, if not more often.  ​He revered their memories together and she would have been so proud of how he cared for Ava and his new found housekeeping abilities! 

The best Granddad

​He was a well-known man around town, known for his generosity and usually had a witty comeback for most conversations. He was deeply loved by all that knew him. The family of the late Martin Grenham Snr. especially his son Martin, daughter Tracy and granddaughter Ava brothers John, Peter and Gerry and four sisters Mary, Patricia, Anne, Connie and mother Teresa, all express their heartfelt thanks to everyone who has offered support, expressed condolences and for all their kind words. They are deeply indebted to the paramedics, fire brigade and to the wonderful staff in ICU in Galway University Hospital.