Mr David Killen

MR David Killen, of 9 Drumlin Park, Downpatrick, passed away at the Ulster Hospital on July 14, 2019, following a short illness.  

Born in Downpatrick in 1945, he was the youngest son, by five minutes, of Joey and Lily Killen. David had three brothers — Aidan, Desmond and his twin, Alastair — and a sister, Olga. He was predeceased by Aidan and Olga. 

On finishing his education at St Patrick’s Grammar School, he joined the Northern Ireland Civil Service aged 16. At the time of his retirement in 2005 he had completed 44 years of service.

His Civil Service career was varied, working in Downpatrick, Derry, Omagh, Strabane and Belfast. During his time in Derry he met his wife, Marie, a fellow civil servant. They were happily married for 46 years and had four children — Fionnuala, Orla, Michael and Aideen. 

He was manager of Strabane Social Security Office from 1978 to 1984. While working there he was a member of Strabane/Lifford Rotary Club and was actively involved in its fundraising activities.

In 1984 he was transferred to Belfast which allowed him to move his family back home to Downpatrick, something that pleased him greatly. He was keenly aware of the importance of the regeneration of Downpatrick and he became a member of Downpatrick Property Trust when it was set up in 1993, serving as a director and secretary until his death. 

In his youth he was a keen footballer, hurler and a skilled cricketer. Along with his two brothers, Desmond and Alastair, he was a member of the Russell Gaelic Union hurling team in the early 1960s. He was involved also in setting up the scouts in Downpatrick in 1963 and served as a scout leader for a number of years.  

David was devoted to his wife and children and was a proud and loving grandfather to Jeorgia, Fiona, Anna and Clodagh, who brought him so much joy.

David was a kind and generous man who always had time for a chat and took great pleasure in helping others. He will be greatly missed by his family and all who knew him. May he rest in peace.