The death has taken place peacefully at South West Acute Hospital, Enniskillen, of William (Willie) Gilleece, late of Drumawill, Sligo Road, Enniskillen.

His death on December 18, 2014, aged 88 years, followed declining health over the previous two years.

Born at Tiraroe, Derrylin, he was a son of Francis and Ellen Gilleece, who had a family of seven. William attended Aughakillymaude Primary School, followed by Presentation Brothers, Enniskillen.

He started his working life with Inland Revenue at Westbridge House, Enniskillen, and following promotion he moved to their office in Newcastle Upon Tyne.

Following a period there, he returned to Drumawill, Enniskillen, in 1950, when licensed premises were purchased and which were known as the Silver Swallow Bar.

In the early 1960s, Willie saw an opportunity to build and open a ballroom, known as the Silver Sandal and latterly The Sunflower, to cater for the increasing popularity of Irish showbands.

Willie continued to work in his business until his retirement in 1991, when he continued with his interest in gardening and travel to the West of Ireland.

Willie’s Requiem Mass took place at St. Michael’s Church, Enniskillen, where his life was celebrated by Rev. Fr. Raymond Donnelly and Rev. Fr. Brian D’Arcy. Burial took place at St. Ninnidh’s Church, Derrylin.

Willie was predeceased by his father and mother, and by his brothers Patrick Francis, Tommy and Harold, and by his sister Mary.

He is survived by his sisters Margaret McManus and Teresa O’Doherty, sister-in-law Mary Gilleece, brother-in-law Benny McMurray, nephews, nieces, cousins, wider family circle and friends.

The family is thankful for all the medical and nursing care received by Willie. The funeral arrangements were by Funeral Directors Carty and McNulty, Sligo Road, Enniskillen.