David Clarke
A much respected businessman from Enniskillen, David Clarke, has died after a short illness.
Mr Clarke, late of Lawnakilla Park, had been a patient in the South West Acute Hospital and died on New Year’s Day.
He managed the family business, D.F. Clarke Ltd from 1967 until his retirement in 2011, originally in Church Street before its relocation to East Bridge Street.
He received his early education at Gloucester House before graduating to Portora Royal as a boarder. He played rugby for the school at senior level.
On leaving school David worked in the clothing trade in London and travelled throughout southern England as a company rep.
When he returned to Enniskillen in 1967 he took over the family business, which incorporated the Tweed Shop.
Then in the 1970s he oversaw the company’s relocation to a new store in East Bridge Street. After his retirement, David and his wife Diane set up the Wool Cabin.
He linked together his experience in the drapery trade and his love for horse racing, he owned several horses, by travelling around Ireland in his mobile shop, selling a wide range of clothing to the equestrian market.
He was a member of the Enniskillen Round Table and served as chairman of the 41 Club.
Although heavily involved in business he was always a family man and loved nothing more than travelling to their holiday home in Burtonport.
He is survived by his wife Diane, sister Ethne, son Connor and daughter-in-law Suzanne.
Following a funeral service in Rossorry Parish Church burial was to the adjoining graveyard.
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