The sudden death of Mr. Robert John Cadden, always known as Robbie, took place at his home, Sydare, Ballinamallard, on Wednesday, July 1, 2015.

Robbie was born on November 22, 1928 in the townland of Doogary, Irvinestown. He was a son of the late Richard and Isobel Cadden and was one of a family of seven. Robbie attended Victoria Primary School in Irvinestown. Following school he trained and worked as a plasterer. He continued this job, which he was so skilled at, until he had a fall which left him unable to do so. He then took up employment doing security in the Training Centre where he stayed until his retirement.

Robbie and his wife Muriel were together almost 70 years and married for 67 of these. The couple began their married life living for a short while at Flowerdale before moving to their family home at Sydare, Ballinamallard where Robbie lived until his death. Together over the years Robbie and Muriel had six children, 17 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren, all of whom Robbie was very proud of.

Robbie had a great love for his family and friends; that love was returned by all who knew him. He was a sociable, kind and caring character, a real gentleman.

Robbie loved nothing more than being able to help others. His interests in his younger days included shooting, playing darts, fishing and gardening. He was well known for the vegetable garden he used to keep at his home.

The funeral service was held in Magheracross Parish Church, Ballinamallard and was conducted by Canon Brian Harper. The removal service was conducted by the Rev. Charlie Eames. The organist was Joan Quinn. The hymns were ‘Amazing Grace’, ‘How Great Thou Art’ and ‘The Old Rugged Cross.’ The readings were Psalm 23 and Psalm 121 read by his grandson Alan Cadden and grand-daughter Vicki Dilworth. The burial was in Sydare graveyard and tea was provided by the Mothers’ Union in the Archdale Hall.

Robbie is survived by his wife Muriel, his children Stanley (Geraldine), Heather (Ken), Walter (Heather), Brian (Hilary), Caroline (Alan) and Richard (Sharon); by his 17 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren. He is further survived by sister Lizzie and brother Tom. He was predeceased by his sisters and brothers Alice, Dick, Gladys and Jimmy.

The funeral arrangements were carried out by F. G. McFarland and Sons with donations in lieu of flowers to Marie Curie.