Rockland County Ancient Order Of Hibernians

2008 Hibernian Business Man of the Year Kevin Murtagh

Kevin Murtagh was born in Jackson Heights, New York in 1966 to the late James and Ann Murtagh. His family moved to Pearl River in 1967. He graduated from St. Margaret's Grammar School and then Bergen Catholic High School. Kevin earned a B.A. in Economics from Albany State University.

Senator Thomas Morahan
2008 Grand Marshall

Kevin's father Jim immigrated to America from Co. Sligo in 1950. It was he who taught Kevin at an early age, by example, the value of hard work, patience and dedication. Kevin and his father operated a landscaping business together for 17 years. It was with these skills learned from his father that laid the foundation of Kevin's work ethics. He was not only Kevin's father, but also his business partner, mentor and best friend. One of the many gifts Kevin's mother, Ann, passed on to him was her keen sense of humor. The ability to not take one's self too seriously has proven to be a great asset in Kevin's career. Another one of her gifts was her love for everything Irish. She instilled in him the importance of a person's heritage and to never forget where you came from.

Kevin worked in Quinn's Deli for 12 years where Sue and the late Felix Quinn taught him the Deli business from the ground up. They also taught Kevin the valuable lessons of how to deal with the public. With this experience and while still working at the deli, Kevin went into business with Martin Shanley and Michael Moroney at the concession stand at Veteran�s Memorial Park. From there Kevin went to work for 8 years at J.F. Keane's Restaurant and Pub in Pearl River. It was Joe Keane who taught Kevin the bar business. He could not have had a better teacher! He gave freely to Kevin the benefit of his many years of experience in the hospitality business.

In 2001, Kevin opened Murty's Publick House in Pearl River, NY with his partner Patrick Moroney where it was an instant hit! In 2002, Kevin bought Pat's share and has since continued to run it successfully.

The two jewels in Kevin's life are his daughter's Nora (13) and Mollie (11). They are truly his pride and joys. The opportunity to watch them grow up and make their way in life is what makes all the hard work and long hours pay off. He only hopes to pass on to them the experience, strength, faith and love that were so freely given to him.