Kilmessan grandad crafts handmade snowmen for entire school community

A RETIRED local man brought joy to an entire school community in County Meath after gifting handmade snowmen to every pupil and staff member at Kilmessan National School.

Pat Maguire, a grandfather to two pupils at the school, began crafting the miniature snowmen during the summer months. By December, he had completed more than 265 figures - one for each of the school’s 245 students, over 20 staff members, and the school’s bus driver.

Working quietly with the help of his grandchildren, Maguire delivered the snowmen in secret the day before the school holidays. The decorations were placed on every child’s desk while the children were at assembly, creating a surprise when students returned to their classrooms.

Each snowman was finished with a red scarf, carefully sewn by Maguire’s wife Bernie, who joined the project in its final stages. School principal Michelle Mc Keown, along with staff and family members helped in distributing the gifts.

"The appreciation from students, parents, and staff has been remarkable," Michelle Mc Keown told us. "It was a such a generous act that brought genuine joy to every child in the school."

Although the festive season has ended, the gesture has continued to resonate with the school community into the new year.

Many families have described the snowmen as treasured keepsakes and lasting reminders of community spirit.

Patrick Maguire, who declined any public recognition at the time, was described by school staff as a "quiet force of kindness" whose work exemplified generosity.

“These are the moments children will remember for years to come,” Mc Keown said.