A Credit Union stalwart, Mr. Peter McAloon, a founding member of Enniskillen Credit Union and lifelong supporter of the Irish Credit Union Movement, passed away on May 7, 2012. The Enniskillen Board of Directors and staff heard of his passing with great sadness.

Late of Sligo Road, Enniskillen, Peter was a founder member of Enniskillen Credit Union in 1969 and joined the Board of Directors in 1979 and continued to serve the movement until 2001. During that time, he was involved in every aspect of the Credit Union in a purely voluntary capacity; his service included that as Vice-Chairman 1996 to 2001, and he was Chairman from 1993 to 1995.

In an appreciation to him, it is recorded that Peter's involvement in the Credit Union movement expanded and influenced others at regional and national level. As a Chapter 17 Delegate, he was instrumental in supporting the establishment of Credit Unions in Knockninny, Belcoo, Kinawley, Newtownbutler, Rosslea, Aghaloo, and many more. When he became involved in Chapter 17 there were five established Credit Unions and now there are close to 30 established.

Peter very strongly supported the volunteer spirit of the Credit Union movement and was very protective of the self help ethos of the communities. He was a mentor and example to many generations of staff and Directors of Enniskillen and other Credit Unions.

In March 1993, Peter was awarded the MBE for his tireless efforts in promoting the Credit Union cause. In 2001, he was made a Fellow of the Irish League of Credit Unions and his name entered in the Roll of Honour.

Many families and communities are indebted to Peter for his work in bringing the Credit Union to them and therefore enabling personal, family and community development.

The Board of Enniskillen Credit Union acknowledges the influence of Peter and carry out their work with integrity, commitment, dedication and sense of community purpose so ably demonstrated to them by Peter McAloon.

Originally from Rosslea, Co. Fermanagh, where he was born and raised, Peter worked in the early part of his career as a technician for Singer Sewing Machines and in latter years served as a school caretaker.

He and his wife, the former Clare Connolly had a family of five - Martin, the late James, Michael, Adrian and Mary. His funeral service took place in St. Michael's Church, Enniskillen, followed by burial at Breandrum Cemetery. Surviving Peter are his wife Clare, his sons and daughter, his six grandchildren and the wider family circle.