Tributes have been paid following the passing of a Dungannon businessman who raised tens of thousands of pounds for charity.
Sean Patterson, who passed away peacefully in Craigavon Area Hospital on Sunday (August 25) was the founder of the Dungannon Friends of Northern Ireland Chest Heart and Stroke (NICHS) and had raised over £50,000 for the charity’s work.
Sean, whose family run Ace Coaches in Dungannon, formed the Dungannon Friends of NICHS in 2017 and organised an annual three-day ‘Hooley at the Lough’ as part of his fundraising.
He was also the Chairman of the recently formed Dungannon Classic Car and Vehicle Club, which ran a successful charity car show in Europarts Yard last month.
In a post on Facebook, NICHS said they were “deeply saddened” to hear of Sean’s passing.
It read: “Sean was an incredible ambassador and supporter of NICHS, being the driving force in raising over £50,000 for our work through events including the annual Hooley at the Lough. He was a pillar of the community and will be remembered fondly and dearly missed by everyone who knew him.
“Our thoughts and condolences are with all of his family and friends. May he rest in peace.”
According to a death notice, Sean’s remains will repose at his late residence, until removal on Wednesday at 9.15am for 10am Requiem Mass in St Patrick’s Church, Dungannon.
Interment will take place afterwards in Carland Road Cemetery.
Obituary: The death has occurred of Sean Patterson (Dungannon)
Also paying tribute to Sean’s life was local Sinn Fein MLA Colm Gildernew who described Sean as a “great community and business man, a raconteur and a man of great wit and wisdom”.
He said: “The last time I spoke with him was only a few short weeks ago when he was out supporting the Brantry Tractor Run.
“He was in his usual good form and as ever promoting his own forthcoming charity event which raised much needed funds for NICHS every year.
“He will be sorely missed in our community. Thinking of all his family and friends at this sad time. Go ndéana Dia trócaire ar a anam, rest in peace Sean.”
Dungannon Thomas Clarke GFC said: “The Officers, Committee, Players and Members of Thomas Clarke G.F.C. are saddened at the death of our supporter and sponsor Sean Patterson.
“Sean and his team have transported our players and supporters all over Ireland over the years. His friendly and personal service was always deeply appreciated.
“Ar dhéis De go raibh anam uasal.”
Sean was the dearly beloved husband of the late Veronica and the late Geraldine. He was also the much loved father of Darren, Fiona, Laura and the late baby Patrick, Jennifer, Francesca, Lesley and Kelvin. He was an adored grandfather and great grandfather.
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