Tributes have been paid following the death of former Finn Harps Chairman and businessman Derek Wilkinson.
Derek Wilkinson was a native of Creeslough, County Donegal and he spent many years living in Bray, County Wicklow.
He died on Sunday, April 14, 2024.
There will be no wake and the family have asked that the house is private.
His remains will arrive at St. John’s Church, Ballymore at 6 pm on Monday, April 15, 2024 to repose overnight.
His Service of Thanksgiving will be held there on Tuesday, April 16 2024 at 2.30 pm with burial in the adjoining graveyard.
Derek was heavily involved with Finn Harps Football Club since the 70s and was the Finn Harps delegate to the FAI.
He also served as vice-chairman and chairman at the club.
Derek ran a car dealership in Bray, County Wicklow before retiring a number years ago.
In a tribute on social media, Finn Harps Football Club said Derek’s last trip to Finn Park was for the match against Bray a few weeks ago – two clubs that were special to him.
“Everyone at Finn Harps FC is deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Derek Wilkinson.
“A former chair of the club, with decades of stalwart service in various roles, Derek was a true club legend.
“His last Harps game was just a few weeks ago as we hosted Bray Wanderers.”
The club said a full tribute will be issued in the coming days.
Bray Wanderers also paid tribute to Derek following his passing as Head of Football Pat Devlin said he was a Finn Harps man through and through but he was a friend to Bray too.
“All at the club – both past and present – are saddened by the recent passing of Derek Wilkinson.
“Derek will be sadly missed by all.
“He was a great League of League character in the game.
“He was a great Finn Harps stalwart.
“But he was a good friend to Bray as well.
“Derek ran a local car business for many years.
“Our two clubs had many a good battle.
“We are very sorry for his passing.
“Our condolences to his family and friends,” said Mr Devlin.
In a statement, the League of Ireland said, “Everyone at the League of Ireland would like to extend our condolences to the family and friends of Derek Wilkinson who has sadly passed away.
“Derek was the former Finn Harps delegate to the FAI as well as serving the Club’s Chairman and will be missed by all.”
Derek is predeceased by his loving parents John and Isobel and infant brother Ernest.
He is survived by his sister Hilary (McNutt), brother-in-law William, nieces Megan and Stacey and her fiancé Keith and grand niece Robyn, relatives and friends.
Get ahead of the day with the morning headlines at 7.30am and Fionnán Sheahan’s exclusive take on the day’s news every afternoon, with our free daily newsletter.
News Related-
Pedestrian in his 70s dies after being struck by a lorry in Co Laois
-
Vermont shooting updates: Burlington police reveal suspect’s eerie reaction to arrest
-
Grace Dent says her ‘heart is broken’ as she exits I’m A Celebrity early
-
Stromer’s ST3 Urban E-Bike Goes Fancy With Minimalist Design, Modern Tech
-
Under-pressure Justice Minister announces review of the use of force for gardaí
-
My appearance has changed because of ageing, says Jennifer Lawrence
-
Man allegedly stabbed in the head during row in Co Wexford direct provision centre
-
Children escape without injury after petrol bomb allegedly thrown at house in Cork City
-
Wexford gardai investigating assault as man is bitten in the face during Main Street altercation
-
Child minder’s husband handed eight year sentence for abusing two children
-
The full list of the best London restaurants, cafes and takeaways revealed at the Good Food Awards
-
Mazda CEO Says EVs 'Not Taking Off' In The U.S.—Except Teslas
-
Leitrim locals set up checkpoint to deter asylum seekers
-
Ask A Doctor: Can You Get Shingles More Than Once?