Stephen’s sudden death while playing the game he loved came as a great shock for his many friends in the bridge playing world in Fermanagh and in the many places he and Ann, his wife and playing partner, regularly visited. Stephen was born in Belfast and spent his working years in Enniskillen where he and Ann made their home with their sons, Adam and Keith.
Bridge became an interest and later a passion for him after much involvement in football and athletics. He was a skilled and thoughtful player who was a formidable opponent but a respectful and courteous one. Arriving at the table he always had a friendly greeting and whether the result was to his advantage or not, thanked the opponents before moving on. For this reason alone, he will be remembered fondly.
With Ann he travelled across the country to congresses and open competitions, enjoying especially the Sunday night competitions in Donegal. Serving on the committees of the clubs in which he played he worked to ensure that the game was promoted and that standards of play were maintained. He brought his natural optimism and enthusiasm to everything in which he was involved.
We offer our condolences to Ann, Adam, Keith and their families.