Des honoured for 40 years commitment to Cookstown community

RAISING hundreds of thousands of pounds for charity, launching a support service for the elderly which is still going strong after 40 years and creating a safe space for friendly community gatherings…

These are just some of the many reasons that Des Keenan, who hails from Cookstown, has won the first ever Lifetime Achievement Award 2025 for Mid Ulster.

During the inaugural Mid Ulster Arts, Culture, and Community Awards ceremony, the Cookstown man was filled with delight when he was presented with the prestigious accolade.

Hosted by Local Personality Malachi Cush and council chair, Councillor Eugene McConnell at the Burnavon Arts & Cultural Centre, the event drew over 300 attendees from across the district, making it a truly memorable and inspiring evening.

Featuring a diverse range of twelve categories, the awards recognised the outstanding contribution that people from the Mid Ulster area and the role that they have played in encouraging people to benefit from the power of the arts, cultural activities, and community service over the previous 12 months throughout the district.

Honouring excellence across Mid Ulster, winners on the night were: Zara Devlin (Arts Person of the Year); Craic Art Theatre (Arts Group of the Year); Anna Gamble (Youth Champion of the Year); Ballinderry Community Hub – Friday Club (Age Friendly Award); Gathered Voices Choir (Equality and Good Relations Award); St Colm’s High School Eco Club (Community Eco Award); STEPS Mental Health Ballinascreen (Health and Well-being Award); Mid-Ulster Community First Responders (Community Safety Award); Carol Doey (Community Champion Award); Jeffery Lamont BEM (Volunteer of the Year Award) and Des Keenan (Lifetime Achievement Award).

Speaking to the Tyrone Herald, Des Keenan’s proud son Nialll described his father as ‘remarkable’.

“In our lives, social etiquette often suggests that we should refrain from openly praising our family members,” Niall said. “ Yet, today, I choose to set aside those conventions and celebrate my father for the extraordinary person he is.

“To those fortunate enough to know him, the unanimous refrain is clear: He’s ‘one of life’s true gentlemen’ – an inspiration, a motivator, a leader, compassionately charming, and undeniably charismatic.

“Des is the friend we all aspire to have. He’s a devoted brother, husband, and father. But above all, he is an exceptional yet humble man who truly enriches the lives of those around him.”

Born in 1944 as one of seven siblings, Des has been a beacon of hope and service, despite having just a primary education. At 80, he continues to inspire; triumphing over personal health battles as a cancer survivor and living with Parkinson’s disease.

His journey in community service began 47 years ago with the founding of his business, which not only boosted local employment but also fostered economic growth.

In 1986, he launched Kildress Care to support the elderly, a cherished service that’s been running strong for nearly four decades.

He also initiated a river sidewalk project in 1990, creating a safe and vibrant space for community gatherings.

Des’ charitable work speaks volumes. From a 200-mile walk at 60 that raised £70,000 for Action MS, to the incredible £100,000 he raised at 70 by pulling a cooker around the North, his efforts know no bounds.

He even established mobile homes for disabled individuals and their families, providing them with comfort and convenience.

And just this February, the local hero raised a fantastic £50,000 for Charis Cancer Care in Mid-Ulster – all on his own.

“I want the world to know just how proud we as a family are of him,” Niall continued. “Dad truly embodies the spirit of volunteerism, and our family, friends, and community are immensely grateful for everything he’s done.

“There’s a well-known saying: ‘God broke the mold when he made you’. If anyone embodies this sentiment, it’s my father, Des.”