David was a‘ thoughtful soul’ with great knowledge of sport

THERE was sadness in Arklow following the death of local man David McAllister recently.

David sadly passed away of natural causes at his home in Old Chapel Ground at the age of 55.

A native of Deansgrange in Dublin, David was the eldest of three brothers born to Derek and Una McAllister. He was predeceased by his parents and is mourned by his heartbroken brothers Derek and Niall.

It’s 20 years since David made Arklow his home, moving to The Pines with his parents after their retirement. He was devoted to them and lived with them until they passed away. A decade ago he moved to Old Chapel Ground and was described by his brothers as being ‘very content’ there.

David was no stranger to County Wicklow, even before he made it his home. His family were regular visitors during his childhood and he spent many happy times in Brittas Bay as a youngster.

As an adult, David worked in hospitality in Dublin as a chef. When he settled in Arklow, he worked as a barman in McDaniel’s, the Nineteen Arches and in the Arklow Bay Hotel.

He was a big sports fan and was a great Spurs supporter. When it came to soccer, golf or rugby, David had an encyclopedic knowledge and his brothers said he was the ‘Jimmy Magee’ of the family in this regard.

He also had a keen interest in current affairs and politics and loved to keep informed of what was going on around the world.

Family was very important to David and he doted on his niece and god-daughter Claudia and his nephew Nicholas.

He was always interested in Nicholas’s endeavours with Wicklow Rovers and was very encouraging of both children.

Described by Niall and Derek as a ‘ kind and thoughtful soul’ David helped others quietly and regularly collected and delivered dinner from the Loaves and Fishes Cafe for some of his elderly neighbours.

David was laid to rest in Shanganagh Cemetery with his parents following funeral Mass in St Joseph’s, Templerainey.

The McAllister family wishes to express thanks to all those who offered kindness and support following David’s death.

David is sadly missed by Niall and Derek, his niece Claudia and nephew Nicholas, sister in law Arianna, Derek’s partner Valerie, neighbours and friends.