Family man Bertie enjoyed reading

Bertie was born on the 1st January 1948 in Broughty Ferry and then moved with his parents Greta and the late William back to Banbridge.

Being diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease he received the loving care of his wife, son and other members of the family. He started off working with the late Jim McCully and then went to work as an electrician in Down Shoes. After this he went to work with the late Robin English and then he was self employed running his own business, then he returned to Down Shoes until its closure and then went to Norbrook Laboratories until his retirement due to ill health.

A man of a quiet and friendly disposition he was held in the highest respect by everyone who had the pleasure of knowing him. He was a bookworm but his main interest was centred around his home and family and it is there that his passing will be mostly felt. He is survived by his wife Bernie, son Paul, daughter-in-law Karyn, grandchildren Lucy, Emma and Joshua, his mother Greta, sister Frances and mother-in-law Eileen. To these and all other relatives sincere sympathy has been extended.

The funeral took place from William Bell and Co. Funeral Home when the large congregation which came to pay their last respects, heard Captain Geoffrey Walmsley pay a fitting tribute.

A tribute was paid by his cousin John McClean.

Interment took place in the New Cemetery. Family flowers were placed on the grave and donations in lieu of flowers are being sent to William Bell and Co. Funeral Directors, 23 Kenlis Street, Banbridge, BT32 3LR for H.D.U. Daisy Hill Hospital. William Bell and Co. had charge of the funeral arrangements.