John Dunne
THE sporting community in Enniskillen was shocked to learn of the unexpected death of John Dunne at the weekend.
John, aged 50, had been a patient at the Freeman Hospital in Newcastle upon Tyne, waiting on a heart transplant since last September.
He received the transplant on Christmas Eve but it eventually proved not to be a success.
Born in Hillview, Enniskillen, he was the son of Gregory and the late Veronica Dunne. He recieved his education at St Michael’s Primary School and St Joseph’s College before taking up employment in the Roadhouse and later John Sheridan and Sons, Old Rossorry Road, where he remained for many years.
A keen sportsman John played hurling, gaelic football and soccer.
He played football and hurling for Enniskillen Gaels and was a member of the last Gaels team to bring a Fermanagh Senior Hurling Championship to the Brewster Park club. He also represented Fermanagh Senior hurlers in the late 1980s.
On the soccer front he was a member of Enniskillen Rangers Football Club playing for several of the club’s side during his career. An ardent Liverpool supporter John continued his association with Rangers for many years supporting and assisting whenever possible.
Enniskillen Gaels in their facebook post said, “John was a popular clubman having played both football and hurling for the Gaels.”
A spokesman for Enniskillen Rangers said, “John was a popular and valuable clubman. He was always very committed. A versatile player he played in several positions in midfield and defence.
“The response to our post on Facebook has been indicative of the esteem in which he was held,” said the spokesman.
John is survived by his wife Cathleen and two daughters Aine and Emer. He also leaves his father Gregory, two brothers Cyril and Kieran and sister Annette.
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