NUIG president travels to LA for veteran broadcaster’s funeral

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Written by Administrator

Wednesday, 22 August 2007

NUI, Galway President, Dr Iognáid Ó Muircheartaigh travelled to Los Angeles last week for the funeral service of the veteran US broadcaster Merv Griffin who died last week at the age of 82.

Mr Griffin, who was awarded an Honorary Degree by the University in 2005, was one of America’s most popular television entertainers and an astute media entrepreneur, with a global network of companies and interests.

Dr Ó Muircheartaigh was invited to the invitation-only funeral in Beverly Hills last Friday 17 August, by Mr Griffin’s son, Tony to participate in the funeral service and to say a prayer in Irish and English.

Commenting on the sad loss of Merv, the NUI, Galway President said, "Over a number of years, Merv developed a warm and close relationship with NUI, Galway. He was interested in and supportive of developments here, especially of the Huston School, which he visited in June 2005. He was a warm, funny, larger-than-life individual who retained a deep interest in the West of Ireland.

“On a personal level, and on behalf of NUI, Galway, I extend my sympathy to his son Tony, his extended family and to his many dear friends."

Merv Griffin was the son of Mervyn and Rita Griffin, nee Robinson. Both parents were Irish-born, tracing their origins to counties Clare and Tipperary. While enjoying a life-long relationship with Ireland, Griffin's links with the West of Ireland were further strengthened with his purchase of St Cleran's in Craughwell, former home of Hollywood legend John Huston.