A man who died in a tragic industrial accident on Monday has been described as a “kind-hearted” and “hardworking man”.

Emergency services were called to the Doon Road, Derrylin on Monday evening in response to the incident, which occurred on an elevated working platform.

Mickey Doonan (68), of The Borough, Teemore, was well known locally from his time as a taxi driver, his love of social dancing and his positive attitude towards life.

He is survived by his wife, Philomena; son Brian, daughter Lucinda, and is pre-deceased by his son, Dermot.

His family has been rocked by the sudden death and a family source said they were “devastated” by the loss: “He comes from an extended family of Doonans in the Derrylin and Kinawley area, and coming so quickly after the unexpected death of his son Dermot further adds to the grief.

“He was kind-hearted, sociable, hardworking and generous,” said the family source. “He was a good listener, and he always took a very positive attitude towards life.

“One of his traits was perfection in everything he did.”

In tributes following his death, many people have spoke of the many dances they enjoyed with him and his time as a taxi driver.

“He was very interested in social dancing and travelled widely to attend dances, and was in Trillick as recently as last Sunday night, and the Sunday before he was in Bundoran.

“As a taxi driver, he was renowned for his punctuality and devotion to ensuring people, young or old, got home safely.”

After leaving the taxiing behind him, Mickey set up his own industrial cleaning business and he also devoted himself to helping others through Alcoholics Anonymous (AA).

“After coming to terms with his own troubles, he devoted time and resources to mentoring and sponsoring support groups and individuals within Alcoholics Anonymous. He was proud of his association with AA.”

Comfort

While still coming to terms with the shock of what has happened their beloved Mickey, his family has taken comfort in the steady stream of messages and callers. They also paid tribute to the efforts of the emergency services and the neighbours at the farm who assisted when the tragedy was discovered.

In other tributes left for Mickey, Eileen McGovern expressed her grief at the news: “Such heartbreaking news! God rest you, Mickey, and may you be rewarded for your goodness to everyone ... for the countless times you ensured our boys got home safely, for the tidy work you did around the house, and for the many dances we enjoyed together. Our sincere sympathy to all your loved ones at this time.”

Aaron McGovern described Mickey as: “An absolute gentleman through the years, always saw you home safe after a night out. Rest In Peace.”

Claire Green said: “An amazing man and friend. God rest his gentle soul, you will be missed; rest in peace, my oul mate.”

His local GAA club, Teemore Shamrocks also paid tribute in a statement.

“Our club extend our deepest sympathies to the extended family and friends of the late Mickey Doonan, who died tragically yesterday.

“Mickey joined our Club in the mid-80s as a strong and committed defender. He enjoyed the ‘comadra’ and friendship that the GAA brought to his life and continued to be a wonderful supporter and sponsor of our club.

“Indeed, many will remember him fondly for providing transport to our underage teams around the county down through the years.

“His hardworking, loyal and gentle nature will be sorely missed.”

Local Sinn Féin councillor, Chris McCaffrey, knew Mickey and was saddened by the news: “This is an extremely tragic and devastating loss which has been felt throughout the entire community and across Fermanagh.

“I am personally very saddened at the passing of Mickey Doonan. He was one of the most genuine people you could ever encounter and he had such a warm, honest and hardworking nature, which always shone out.

“Like so many others I grew up with Mickey driving the buses to matches and discos and then later on to other social events and staff dos.

“I will fondly remember the chats we had on those journeys, and I know everyone will value his selflessnesses and kindness to always ensure that everyone on his buses got home safe. He was someone you could trust, and he went the extra mile for everyone.

“He was a lifelong GAA devotee and was a loyal supporter and former player of Teemore Shamrocks GAA club, and he would also be seen at dances where he’d be jiving and enjoying the music.

“Mickey will be deeply missed by all who knew him and I extend my deepest sympathies to the family, friends and loved ones at this sad loss. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílis.”

As a mark of respect, the club is set to form a Guard of Honour at 10:40am at the front gates of St. Mary’s Church, Teemore, wearing club gear.

Mickey’s body returned home on Wednesday afternoon for a wake last night. His funeral took place on Thursday at 11am in St. Mary’s Church, Teemore, followed by burial at Carrowhill Cemetery in the family plot.

Deeply regretted by his sorrowing partner, son, daughter, Emma, Amy, Kiara, brothers John and P.J., sisters Kathleen and Sheila (pre-deceased by Ena, Mary, Nora and Patsy RIP), nephews, nieces and the extended family circle.

Funeral arrangements were by Pat Blake Funeral Directors.