Tributes to long-serving Ulster Herald printer

WARM tributes have been paid to a former Ulster Herald employee who served the company with distinction for more than 50 years.

Phil McGovern, of Fairmount Cottages in Omagh, died last Friday aged 88.

Mr McGovern’s funeral took place in the Sacred Heart Church on Monday, with interment afterwards in the cemetery at St Mary’s Church, Killyclogher.

The Omagh man joined the company as an apprentice printer in 1948. During the subsequent half century he adapted to the various technologies which changed the nature of newspaper printing over the years, successfully moving from the traditional linotype hot metal process to the advent of new computer technology.

Mr McGovern was extremely proud of his long career with the ‘Herald, and enjoyed recalling many stories from bygone days at the John Street premises.

At the time of his retirement in 1998, Mr McGovern was described as a ‘gentleman’ and presented with a barometer and a gold watch.

However, his retirement did not signal the end of his close association with the firm. In 2001, he attended celebrations marking the centenary of the first publication of the Ulster Herald in 1901.

Over the next 20 years he was a regular visitor to the offices on John Street and attended many retirement functions for his former colleagues.

In addition to his work, Mr McGovern’s funeral on Monday heard how he had had a great interest and love for his family.

His only sister, who pre-deceased him, was married to former ‘Herald work colleague, Clarence Davidson.

“We look back on Phil’s life with love, and his example, his friendship and we are able to see a true disciple,” said Fr Ignacy Saniuta, who celebrated the funeral Mass.

“For over 80 years as a son, uncle, brother and friend, Phil followed Christ. He was a loyal friend, totally committed to his family, his sister, nieces and nephews. His family network was very close throughout his life and he made all children feel special with a spontaneous gift.”

A regular Mass goer, Mr McGovern carried out numerous duties over the years in the Sacred Heart Church and, up until the coronavirus lockdown, was among the collectors at Sunday Masses.

He was pre-deceased by his parents, Peter and Brigid and his sister, Rosemary Davidson. Mr McGovern is survived by nieces, nephews, grandnieces and nephews and great-grand nephews.