Mr. Cyril Denvir

THE sporting fraternity in the Downpatrick area has been in mourning following the passing of Cyril Denvir at the end of January.

Cyril, better known to his friends as ‘Chiefer’, passed away peacefully at his Rathkeltair Road home at the age of 61 following a brave battle with cancer. 

A loving husband, father and grandfather, he was also a highly respected and active member of the sporting community and will be greatly missed by many people.

After leaving school he took up a range of jobs in and around Belfast before settling on a career with the Civil Service, a position he held until he took early retirement several years ago. 

Never one to sit and watch the world go by, he started his own painting and decorating business — a trade he learned from his later father, Billy.

However, it was in the field of sport that he will be best remembered. He was an accomplished basketball player, a low handicap golfer, a steady bowler and he also found time to play Gaelic football for Killyleagh GAC where his height made him a perfect full forward. 

Cyril represented Ulster basketball at U-16 and U-19 levels and after playing for Down Demons and Russell Hunters in his early days, he was snapped up the legendary Ardglass Sharks where he was their top scorer for many years. 

One of his coaches, Seamus Burns, described him as “poetry in motion,” such was his movement on the court. 

He was more than just a social golfer and enjoyed immensely his membership at St. Patrick’s Golf Club, Downpatrick, and his time with members of the Avenue Bar Golf Society, of which he was proud to be captain.

His zest for life and determination to overcome his illness was plain for all to see, but even when he knew that he was fighting a losing battle, he never complained or got angry.

He had a great capacity for friendship and was a placid, easy going man who made many friends. His easy going, amicable personality endeared him to all who came in contact with him.

He also had a compassionate and caring nature and those who knew him will remember him with great fondness and as a friend who always provided a listening ear when needed.

Cyril had many admirable qualities, but above all else he was an honest, trustworthy and diligent member of the community.