Michael Joseph Canney

Michael Joseph Canney, 88, beloved father, grandfather and former husband, passed away June 14, 2018.

Michael was born May 6, 1930 in Shillelagh, County Wicklow, Ireland to Elanor Reaney Canney and Patrick Joseph Canney. He grew up with his three sisters, Mella, Maureen, and Nolaidg throughout Southern Ireland. He later immigrated to the United States, and became a citizen in 1958, and was ordained as a Priest in San Antonio, Texas.

He later met, and married, BettyAnn Burke-West in December of 1966. He gained a daughter, Katherine West, and a son Gary West. They later had a daughter in 1968, Siobhan Canney.

Shortly after marrying BettyAnn Burke-West they moved to New Mexico. Michael began working with Mountain Bell (now Century Link), where he was instrumental in providing the first updated communication system for American Furniture and the first inter Hospital phone system for the Lovelace Hospital on Gibson. He also helped to establish a specialized work program for men released from prison seeking re-entry to the workforce (the first Felon Employment Incentive).

Michael was known for his kind, caring concern for others…his tremendous sense of mischievous humor, with his twinkling Irish Eyes, his love of God the Holy Trinity, his love of golf, and his never-ending love for his family.

His transfer to Denver, CO in 1978 provided an opportunity to expand his gardening skills, especially growing tulips. A drive through the neighborhood today will reveal many homes displaying red and yellow tulips, many of them bulbs supplies by Michael over the years.

Retirement beckoned after 10 years of shoveling snow, moving to Hot Springs Village, AR to enjoy his beloved golf. His wife’s nursing career became an impetus for an interest in her field. Soon he became the first lay person to become indoctrinated to the Arkansas Board of Nursing.

They later moved back to New Mexico in 2003

Michael became an integral part of his communities, and strove to help others in any way possible. He donated his time to volunteer work at The Good Shepherd, and also to The Blessed Sacrament Chapel at St. Thomas Aquinas. He was a listener, mentor, and friend to many, and will continue to be missed.

He is survived by his children, Siobhan Canney, Katherine West-Sciantarelli, Gary West, and his former wife, BettyAnn; his grandchildren, Marshall Rosales, Matthew and Jared West and wife, Ashley. He is also survived by his sisters, Mella Canney, Nolaidg Nolan and husband, Richard. He also leaves many cherished aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins. Also touching Michael’s life were Mary and Niall Thunder, and Mary Reaney of Dublin, Ireland.

A Funeral Mass will be held Friday, June 29, 2018, at 2:00 p.m. at St. Jude’s Thaddeus Catholic Church, 5712 Paradise Blvd NE, Albuquerque, NM 87114.

FRENCH – Westside
9300 Golf Course Rd NW
505-897-0300