TRIBUTES have been paid to a former police chief inspector, who served his career across North Wales.

Michael John Mahoney, from Mold, died peacefully at home on Sunday, March 5, 2023, aged 72.

Born in Wrexham, Mike joined the police at 19-years-old, and as he rose through the ranks, he served across the region, including Wrexham and Flintshire.

His career saw him part of regional crime squads, working on serious crimes, as well as part of Special Branch in Holyhead.

He was based at Colwyn Bay as a chief inspector when he retired.

Wife of 23 years Gill said: "Mike was funny, loving, kind and generous. He was a very brave man, feared nothing but wasn't arrogant.

"He took everything head on. He was our rock, any problems anyone had, he was the one who would sort it all out.

"We were all worried when he got his [cancer] diagnosis, about how we would cope, and meeting his third grandchild.

"It was a total shock, as he was so fit."

Son Robert, who has followed in his dad's footsteps with a career in the police, said: "He was dedicated completely to family, he always put every single one of us first."

Mike's daughter Kathryn agreed, adding: "He enjoyed spending time with family and friends, and he was always cheerful.

"I remember him always telling stories, and people would want to listen."

Outside of work, Mike loved walking, and enjoyed football, a fan of both Manchester United and Wrexham AFC. In his younger days he also took up martial arts, including kung fu and judo.

Former colleague and retired superintendent Paul Davies echoed the family's sentiments.

He said: "Mike was a really good friend and very well liked. He was an experienced officer who rose through the ranks.

"He was very grounded, always calm and in control of situations he'd encounter.

"His local knowledge was excellent and his dedication to the communities he served couldn't be faulted.

"After our retirement, a group of us kept in touch, including Mike, and we would meet up regularly.

"Throughout his illness, he faced it with tremendous courage. He stayed positive and maintained his sense of humour.

"He was an all round good detective, policeman and friend, and I will miss him greatly."

Mike leaves behind wife Gill, children Kathryn and Robert and their partners Mark and Sarah, and grandchildren Rhiannon, Bethan and Anna.

A funeral service at St David's Roman Catholic Church, Mold, takes place tomorrow (Wednesday, March 22) at 2pm, followed by cremation at Flintshire Memorial Park.

Family flowers only but donations may be given in Mike's memory to Marie Curie Nurses, the Shooting Star Unit at the Wrexham Maelor Hospital and Hospice at Home.

Further inquiries to Peter Morris Funeral Directors on 01352 700142.