Portnoo Beach, Donegal - Dan's favourite view.
I am writing this still in a state of shock at the loss of a very special person who touched our lives in so many ways.
Dan was one of the most wonderful people many of us have ever known. I am devastated for Kim & Joseph - his brother Michael - and for all of us who were his friends.
There has already been such an outpouring of love and support that I thought it would be a fitting tribute to try and gather the messages together in one place for Kim & Joseph to look back on when they need it.
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As such - however well you knew Dan, do please leave your messages, memories and condolences here (via the comments link). Please pass this URL on to anyone else you know who may want to contribute.
With an aching heart and a real sense of bewilderment.... Dan Devine RIP.
With an aching heart and a real sense of bewilderment.... Dan Devine RIP.
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Mike Prenton e: mike.prenton@gmail.com
i knew dan mainly as a mate of mike's in leeds around the late '80s. i knew he had health issues but was still very shocked to hear of his untimely passing.
ReplyDeletebest memories would be of fa cup semi final day 95 going back to his place after the blues had got thru to wembley and if i remember rightly he did us proud with tea and toast and was the perfect host on an already joyous day.
also the day in '87 when a ragbag team of chancers beat the university first team in the 5-a-side competition with dan's left peg providing one of the goals.
i also remember bumping into him in 1988 in leeds and him saying something surprisingly touching which showed what a warm type of guy he was.
there will be others who knew him better than i did and spent more time with him over the years - but rest easy tonite mate.
Terribly sad news. Have many happy memories of Dan.
ReplyDeleteTony Aslett
Leeds Academicals &
Westfield Court flats
1989-92
So so sorry to hear the news. It's just not right. Such a gorgeous man.
ReplyDeleteMark & Nancy
Really sorry to hear your news.
ReplyDeleteDan was a top bloke, one of the world's good guys.
Deepest sympathy to the family
G&K
I hadn't seen Dan since Mike's 40th, a couple of years ago. I'm terribly sad and shocked to hear the news. Dan was a lovely man who always had time for a smile and a kind word. My deepest condolencies to his family and friends.
ReplyDeleteSimon "Greenie"
Very shocked and sad to hear the news. First knew Dan through "the accies", where i seem to recall him running training sessions & even making some of us buggers (relatively) fit! Then we bumped into each other when our boys grew up & ended up playing against each other in the garforth junior league - there was no touchline arguments for us two, just proper appreciation of good lad's football! Kept in touch through mike's curry nights too - so glad he made it along recently. Dan was one of the nicest blokes you could ever meet & will be sadly missed by many....
ReplyDeleteShocked and upset by this also, I met Dan through Mike when I first moved to Leeds and regularly caught up through the curry nights
ReplyDeleteMy first main impression was on the second time of meeting him, despite only a brief chat the first time we had met he remembered my name, what I did for a job and of course what football team I supported, that was only a small thing but made a big impression on me, he was always warm, friendly and great company, a fantastic bloke and my thoughts go out to his family and friends
At the last get-together I was sat by Dan and enjoyed a great chat through that evening, football dominated of course but he was the kind of person who you could easily get along with and with instantly put you at ease.
Rest In Peace Dan
We were very upset by the news.
ReplyDeleteWe only met Dan a few times through Mike, but we always remember how positive and happy a person he was, despite his health problems. He was an example to us all.
Dan always had a smile.
Love to Kim & Joseph
Chris & Aly
Jonny Jewitt, Paisley, Scotland said...
ReplyDeleteI first met Dan in 1983 when I was sharing a house with a bunch of lads who were on his course, where we were all young, happy and daft. I played footy against him in the Architects v Planners grudge matches and enjoyed the banter between both sides and shared a beer often with him in some pub in Leeds. I was always greeted with a "whaddabutya Jewitt" and a huge grin from the big man. Many years later, on Stan's stag weekend in Glasgow, I was treated to the same. Some things never change.
Sorry to hear you're gone Dan and even the referees you frightened for all those years will be sad too.
My condolences to the family.
Regards,
Jon, Sara, Rose and Josh Jewitt.
Dan used to be my boss and he was one of the nicest, kindest, most positive people I have ever known, and was a inspiring,supportive boss who taught me a great deal, he will be missed by so many.
ReplyDeleteOne of the first happy faces I met when I joined Leeds Planning Dept, made me feel very welcome on arrival from Leicester 10 years ago, I will always be grateful and will miss long chats about the Mighty Whites. A top bloke and will always be remembered. Thank you Dan - MoT
ReplyDeleteWhen our second son was born Lisa and I were doing the name choosing game. Of course, you always think of other people you know with same name and discount all sorts of otherwise good names in the process. My wife suggested "Danny" after one of her nephews. The only Danny I knew was Dan Devine. I thought about Dan, a clever, witty, and all round good guy. I couldn't ask for more than that so it was easy, Lisa got the name she wanted and my son had a name that meant a great deal to me, like Dan.
ReplyDeleteIt was through Dan that many of us got together, either through LUFC or the Accies. Dan was always enthusiastic and didn't have a bad word for anyone. His easy going and cheerful manner will be fondly remembered by all of us who had the pleasure of knowing him.
ReplyDeleteVery, very sad to hear the news of Dan's passing. I also knew Dan at Leeds Poly in the 80's and he was a character you could not ignore - lively, fun and always up for a laugh.
ReplyDeleteFrom my recollection of him and what other posters have written, he is destined to be remembered this way, which is a fitting tribute to a man who knew health could eventually catch up on him.
Our thoughts are with his family in what must be a most difficult time.
Paul Tyrrell, B, Jonathon, Emma, Jack and Sam
I remember Dan as a friendly face in a sea of strangerw when I entered the Planning Dept as the first Police Officer to work in the Leeds Offices in 2001. Dan helped break the ice and his sense of humour eased my fears in what was a strangly new environment for me. When I retired and left the Police at the end of 2005, Dan was there with the others to wish me well. I will miss him.
ReplyDeleteDan was one of those blokes that would always give you the time of day. No attitude, no stress, always something to say to you. He did not deserve the hardships he faced and never went on about them, he just got on with stuff.What a top bloke, he will be sorely missed, but lovingly remembered.
ReplyDeleteI only met Dan a couple of times on the curry nights, but if he was only half as good, kind, brave and generous as Mike constantly said he was then he was a very special man and someone I wish I knew as well the rest of you did.
ReplyDeleteGod Bless.
Like lisa & Tim our son is called Dan because of the happy memories & associations we have with that name (see comment above).
ReplyDeleteBoth Simon & myself will miss Dan. He was so great to work with. We shared such happy times - obviously not recently discussing the football! But spent great times in the past at Elland Road...
Dan was great at making everyone feel comfortable and that they had a friend.
Kim all our love is with you and Joseph!
Sam, Simon & Daniel Grundy
Again, I was another whose entry into the Leeds planning and accies fraternity was made all the more easier by Dan's warmth and friendly nature. I can't remember a conversation with Dan that didn't involve a laugh and a smile, even those about a planning application! :-)
ReplyDeleteIt was sometimes hard to remember how much he was no doubt suffering at times as I don't recall a single case of complaint.
One of the true good guys, you are sorely missed.
RIP Dan
Got the news earlier today of Dan's untimely departure from Mike Preno. I Knew Dan through the footie mainly and subsequently sharing numerous nights in various pubs, with the Burley road flats crew inc. Dan Stan, Preno and a few others besides. I recall the regular banter between me as an architect and dan the planner, although I guess my stongest memory of him now thinking back is that deeply etched image of him standing there with the constant grin that defined Danny so well. They say the good die young well his loss is certainly testimony to that statement. My sincere condolences to his family and those closest to him, and god speed Dan! SB
ReplyDeleteI have many memories of Dan over the years I have known him, most of them he has a smile on his face. His ability to cheer up a dull day in the office will not be forgotten. one memory that really stands out for me was the one of overwhelming prde and joy when he first brought Joseph round the office as a baby. There was no prouder man. Sadly missed , a great bloke.
ReplyDeleteWee Daniel, as we all called him, was our childhood friend from the Bowling Green in Strabane. His Mum, Dad, Nana and brother Michael were a part of our everyday lives and my sister Barbara and Daniel were inseparable.
ReplyDeleteDaniel, may you now have found rest and watch over Kim and Joseph.
God bless
Helen Campbell-Heaney
i 1st met dan playing gealic football and he was rubbish lol, but he would have told u that himself.Then a few years later he came in for his hair cutting and he recognised me straight away and became good mates.When he had his transplant he was made up,not only for the obvious reasons but cos of the medication his hair started growing like crazy,which was great for me cos he was a good tippr,unlike prenno,lol,lol.My heart goes out to his family.Will be greatly missed.We will give you a good send off on monday mate.
ReplyDeleteAlthough I haven't been in touch with Dan persoally for many years I have fond memories of him from my childhood years in the Bowling Green Strabane. He was a jolly character and his passing is so sad. My sympathy to his family and especially to brother Michael.
ReplyDeleteR.I.P.
Dan Devine was probably the first person I met beyond my immediate family way back in the mid to late sixties. I remember playing football with him, racing him around the Bowling green block , fighting with him , making up and playing every form of sport we could think of. Sitting here thinking back of so many memories , most of them happy , I, like many others are deeply shocked and saddened. I had seen him a few times recently and knew the extent of his issues and suffering but he was so resolute and quick with a funny story no matter how bad he felt. The last time I saw him was in hospital last June , he was in a wheel chair and me in crutches with a cruciate injury and we joked what a bad advert for the Bowling Green and Butcher street we were. He touched many people in his short life and the comments on this site are a tribute to a friend who will be sorely missed but about whom stories and memories will remain for a long time . I look forward to perhaps meeting many of you in the future to share them and drink to a very dear absent friend.
ReplyDeleteFarewell Dan!
ReplyDeleteLong time friend and next door neighbour.
I never realised that Narin/Portnoo made such an impression on you. I think it did for all of us.
Knew you so well and yet hardly knew you at all it seems.
Tom
I remember nervously coming to Leeds for an interview at the council and being immediately put at ease by Dan. I think it might have had something to do with the fact that the interview turned into a conversation about football! Many a Monday morning was spent talking about the weekend's football action, and it says something that Dan was even willing to listen to ramblings about my team (the Leeds fans least favoured half of Manchester).
ReplyDeleteDan was a friendly, funny, warm, generous man and he will truly be missed. My thoughts are with you Kim and Joseph.
Although about 10 years younger than me I watched Daniel growing up in the Bowling Green. When he was little he used to vist our house (and many others) often and tell us stories about the (imaginary) land and animals he owned and how they were coming on, what he had bought and sold and so on.
ReplyDeleteOne evening my Dad asked Daniel (probably about 5 or 6 years old) what he was having for his tea - "Bacon from one of me own pigs" says he. My father asked if he had killed it himself. "Naw" says he "it died from some ould disease or other"!
Even at that age Daniel was special, he was friends and friendly with everyone, as innocent as the day was long and a lovely person. He will be sadly missed. RIP
We have so many great memories of Daniel growing up in The Bowling Green. We shared many happy times together when he and our children joined in many escapades - in particular around the beaches of Donegal during the summer months.
ReplyDeleteMy deepest sympathy to Kim and Joseph, Daniel's brother Michael and family.
May he rest in peace.
I am finding it hard to put into words how i feel at the moment. Dan would have had no problem with this as he could always captivate an audience with his stories and jokes. When visiting him in hospital you could tell that the others on the Ward were very thankful that Dan was there to cheer them all up. Dan was always thinking of others rather than himself no matter what problems he was facing.
ReplyDeleteI hope to meet you again one day and i am so sorry we didnt make the most of every minute we had with you.
My love and thoughts to Kim and Joseph at the difficult time.
Carol, Gavin, Charlotte and Emily
I met Dan in 1984 at Leeds Poly. Together with Iain Bath and Helen Farrer we did all our group projects together and despite all that alcohol still managed to get Planning Degrees. Danny's free Leeds Building Society bag was the 5th member of the team and featured in all photos. I think it also followed him into his professional career. Even after 25 years Dan could still get me to the punchline of one of his jokes (always terible) without me realising that it was a joke and not some random real life story. I also never ceased to be amazed how long it took him to finish a meal - mainly because he was busy telling some terrible joke.
ReplyDeleteDan was best man at my wedding - a role he fulfilled many times for many others. And that's what he was - the best kind of man.
All my love Kim and Joseph xx
Michelle Bath
It was simple - we all loved you Dan and we all knew that you loved us. You showed each and every one of us, every time you greeted us with your smile and a kind word.
ReplyDeleteAnd now? Now, everyone at work promises you we will give Kim all our love and support, to help her in whatever way we can.
God bless
Really saddened by the news.
ReplyDeleteDanny was a great guy who will be sorely missed by many. Have many memories from the late eighties & early nineties with the Accies & living at the flats & Dans smile seems to punctuate many of those memories.
Was really chuffed to see him again at the last 'curry night' & whilst he had obviously been unwell he hadn't changed a bit. He never complained about his ill health & to anyone listening in it would have appeared that his spells in hospital only served as a source inspiration for funny stories!
Anyone who met Danny knows he was a genuinely nice bloke who made a point of being interested in you & what you were doing. He was great company & the first person I ever remember calling me 'Toto Schillaci'.
Rest in peace Danny. The world is a poorer place without you.
Toto
I first met Dan nine years ago at a Leeds Vs Everton match with MikeP. I instantly warmed to him and it wasn't just because he said that Everton were his 'other' team after Leeds. I was struck by his warmth and his sincerity. Because I didn't see him that often I always cunningly maneouvred my way to sitting near him at the huge table at the curry nights we had in Leeds. I can still vividly picture his smiling face at the punch line to one of his jokes or his wry observations on life. I often felt humbled by how positive he remained throughout his health problems and how I never ever saw him without him breaking into that of smile of his and coming over and shaking your hand.
ReplyDeleteA truly special man.
Rest in Peace Dan.
We've just heard the very sad news. Our thoughts and prayers are with you Kim and Joseph.
ReplyDeleteJust reading the comments above bring back some wonderful memories. I'm another one who experienced his Brian Glover like enthusiasm for the beautiful game at the 'Accies' - my first dip into footy in Leeds.
Honoured to have known you Dan, a truly special gentleman.
Jes, Louise, Joe and Millie
The first time I met Dan was in Smiths Lane in 1969 with Mal. Most of what we ever did for the next 14 years revolved around football. I remember Dan's cousin came to visit from America in 1972 and he brought a frisbee. We'd never seen one before, so we played with it for five minutes and then went back to football.
ReplyDeleteThe last three times I met Dan were the proudest and happiest days of our football lives watching Tyrone win three All Irelands.
Teenage kicks
Suspect Device
Mirror in the bathroom
Tube Station at Midnight
I Will Follow
Valley of the three ponds
I am proud and glad to have known Dan. He was a great friend.
My deepest condolences to Kim, Joseph and Michael.
Slan a chairde
Austy.
Like many, we were introduced to Dan and Kim and Joseph through Mike and Sarah.
ReplyDeleteDan was an instantly likeable chap, whose brush with the Blarney stone made him easy on the ear but nigh on impossible to understand ! I fear that many a funny punchline was wasted on me, not through his inability to deliver but my inability to comprehend his accent. It mattered not - his facial expression told the story more than adequately.
Whilst his physical presence will be a loss at future get togethers I suspect the memory of Dan Devine will remain strong for many a year to come.
We do not profess to having known Dan well, but what we knew, we liked. A lot.
Bless you Dan.
Phil, Patrice and family.
It's often said that the good guys are taken early. I can think of no better example.
ReplyDeleteRest In Peace, Dan.
It was great to know you for the short time I worked with you.
Danny was such a nice man and a fellow Irish man I loved to here him talk it reminded me of home in Ireland we will all miss you Danny all my love to Kim and Joseph at this very sad time.
ReplyDeleteJosie Burton
I remember Daniel growing up as a little boy in the Bowling Green, dressed in shorts and wearing charming little hand-knitted jumpers, no doubt lovingly made by his wonderful, caring mum or Nana, who were always there in the background, suddenly appearing if there was a grazed knee or a split lip that needed seeing to - as I am sure they are there, caring for Daniel now.
ReplyDeleteWe grew up with the Troubles on our doorstep - literally, at times. Daniel would have been about five when it all started. But, in spite of this, we all enjoyed a wonderful, happy childhood. Daniel and my sister Barbara were inseparable. We collected tadpoles in jam jars at the Valley of the Three Ponds (most people would have called it a field with three puddles), we climbed and had picnics at The Rocks, headed off on our bikes up the Curly Hill, played at the swings at Courtray Park and saved our pennies for treats at Packie's sweet shop. We played all sorts of games in the car park in the middle of the Bowling Green (remember 'Eighty Bogs, Eighty Bogs, One, two three...) and even enjoyed playing in the burnt out lorries that were abandoned there after riots - all the more exciting because our parents didn't allow us to go near them (those were the days).
Daniel was such a character, so funny and always full of stories, with a vivid imagination. He was always smiling, and he made everyone around him smile. His was a world full of smiles.
He grew into a kind, caring, compassionate, honest and true young man.
My big regret is that I didn't see him in recent years. I can't believe I only phoned him last week to arrange to meet up.
I know he will have been a fantastic dad.
My thoughts are with Joseph and Kim and his brother Michael and everyone else whose lives he touched.
I had the privilege of working alongside Dan for a couple of years at the time when his replacement kidney was starting to fail and he was not at all well. He was frequently in hosital and was having great trouble with his feet. Most people with far less problems would have complained about their lot - but not Dan. He pressed on as well as he could with his work, was always ready to help and support others and, as was said above, his hospital visits were a constant source of jokes and witty stories, often at his own expense.
ReplyDeleteIt seems that those with the biggest burdens to bear often do it best. Dan, you did it magnificently and were an inspiration to everyone who worked with you.
May the Lord bless you and keep you,
The Lord make his face to shine upon you
And give you peace. Amen.
Keep thinking about Daniel, so many memories. Just wanted to share another little story, which illustrates Daniel's vivid imagination and capacity for tall tales. My dad was taking a gang of us swimming, to Derry Baths, one Sunday and asked young Daniel in the car on the way there if he could swim. Well, not only could Daniel swim, he was possibly the best swimmer in the whole of Ireland. We heard all about how many miles (many, many miles)he had swum in record time etc etc. When we got there, Daniel, all smiles as usual, leapt straight off the side of the pool into the deep end, and, promptly, nearly drowned. He couldn't swim a stroke. His stories were obviously so good, even he believed them...
ReplyDeleteI first met Dan at Leeds Poly, back in the early 1980’s. We used to go and watch Leeds United home and away, and we spent hours on coaches talking about football and music. We shared our passions for football and punk, new wave and ska, and Dan would hold court on the bus with his tales of Feargal Sharkey and the Undertones.
ReplyDeleteWe caught up again in Spring 1989 when I started at Leeds Planning Dept, and he persuaded me out of Elland Road and the pubs on a Saturday afternoon, to play football for Leeds Academicals (not Colton!!). He became my manager and after one too many beery Friday nights, he converted me from a winger to a full back, so I wouldn’t have to run about so much. Cheers for that Dan – best decision ever!!
We’ll miss you Dan, and I can’t believe I won’t be hearing your sighs of resignation and disappointment down at Elland Road again. But I’ll remember you for your smiling face, your jokes, and all the good times we’ve spent together. You were simply one of the loveliest people I’ve ever met, and my thoughts are with you, Kim and Joseph.
God bless.
Dave Jones, Andrea, Ieuan and Cerys.
Both my wife Margarida and I met Dan when his son Joseph started taking guitar lessons with us. He was a great guy with a great sense of humour and a great taste in music. Dan used talk to me about some his his favourite bands such as the Undertones and U2.
ReplyDeleteWe are deeply shocked having last seen and spoken with Dan only last Thursday.
Rest in peace
I'm another one of the Bowling Green/Butcher St/Back St gang. Reading about our exploits back then bring back many good and happy memeories of Dan. I remember the games played on the Bowling Green (what a great game Eighty Bogs was!), Dan's father Michael standing in their doorway or sitting on the bench at the front of the house keeping an eye on us. I remember the countless games of football too - I was usually a spectator or a goal post! - and have vivid memeories of being regularly hit in the face by a stray ball. Dan was always the first to run up and make sure I was OK - that was just the kind of friend he was.
ReplyDeleteI am very glad that I got to see him a couple of times last year with Malachy & Austin. We sat around his table looking at old photos of Strabane, reminiscing and laughing and an afternoon passed in minutes.
Dan it was a privilege and a pleasure to have known you. As the Irish blessing goes
"...until we meet again,
May God hold you in the palm of His hand."
I have no doubt that it is exactly where you are
Colette
After reading so many wonderful comments that sum up Dan's personality so well it is hard to find the words to add something original to justify the type of person he was. Like so many people I met Dan when he came to play with the Accies, his easy going personality, sense of humour, knowledge of football and cultured left foot made it impossible not to like him.
ReplyDeleteA true gentleman who will be sorely missed but who looking back brought a smile into all our lives even for those of us who only knew him for a short time.
My thoughts are with Kim & Joseph at this sad time and may you rest in peace Danny.
Terry Wilson
I was deeply saddened to hear the news of the death of an old friend. Looking at the picture of Portnoo beach brought back memories of totally carefree days in the sunshine (was it sunnier then?) when the only decision was where to go out at night and the only answer was the Narin Inn
ReplyDeleteI'm glad Dan remembered it as fondly as many of us do.
My sincere sympathies to Dan's family
Dermot
I was truely shocked and deeply saddened to hear of the death of Dan.
ReplyDeleteThe posts on here are a tribute to a warm and funny man and one of life's true gentlemen. It was an absolute pleasure to have met you Dan.
With lots of love to Kim and Joseph xx
Nicole Evans
Hello Kim
ReplyDeleteAlthough i didn't know Dan that well I just wanted to pass on my condolences to you & the rest of the family. Sorry for you loss. x
Being a year or two older I am not so familiar with Dan's college and work experiences as my brother Mal or others who have left their tributes here. News of his death comes as a shock despite being aware of his frailties.
ReplyDeleteThe last time I saw Dan was a few years ago when I was walking from my office in the Bowling Green downtown for a sandwich. As I passed Dan's house I heard a shout of 'McGarrigle!' Turning I saw a man who hadn't changed in the many years since we had last spoken and who still had that warmest of smiles that has obviously touched the hearts of so many. After a mutual exchange of pleasantries we did what came naturally, we sat on 'Devines wall' and discussed every topic known to mankind. Our football relationship was always interesting since I follow Chelsea and he supported 'Dirty Leeds' but that never stood in our way. That lunchtime passed without my sandwich!!!
His legacy is his smile!
Requiescat in Pace Dan!
So sad and shocked to hear about Daniel.
ReplyDeleteI am another Bowling Green friend and it has been lovely to read their comments.
I have so many happy memories of Daniel. We grew up together and it was due to Daniel that i was a tom boy ! We rode bikes with no brakes, played footie, spot, 'aidy bugs' went on wild adventures and even ate chewing gum off the pavement and still survived.I remember his mod days and stylish parka that he was so proud of.
I particularly remember spending Christmas day with Daniel and his family, as my sister was in hospital, and how hospitable they were.
It was an honour to grow up with Daniel and to have so many happy memories of childhood.
My thoughts are with Kim, Joseph, Michael and family.
Barbara Campbell
Dan was such a great guy, and a good laugh and I will miss him dearly. Although I never actually had the opportunity to work in the same team as him when I worked at Leeds, I certainly was interviewed for a job in planning by him numerous times, and I learnt a lot about planning from him. I remember the very sound advice, and some would say a prep talk, he gave me when I felt low about my career, and if it wasn't for that, I would have given up. My thoughts are with Kim, who I used to consider my 'work mum' when I worked at Leeds, and their son Joseph. I am so sorry for your loss. x
ReplyDeleteAvani
I first met Dan in 1980 when my family moved next door to Dan in the Bowling Green. I remember Dan, Mal, Austy and Titch sitting on the bench in front of Dan's house. As my brother Tommy, cousin Conor and I approached, Dan was the first to introduce himself and from that day on we have all remained good friends.
ReplyDeleteTimes with Dan were always a laugh whether it was in our back room having a chat or listening to music; playing football for Sigersons on Sunday afternoons in the early 80's; hitching lifts from Strabane to Portnoo during the summer with rucksacks full of cans of Harp lager; visiting Dan at Leeds Poly and the numerous nights in Felix's.
The last time I saw Dan was 3 years ago when I was last in Strabane. We were in Felix’s, we had pints in our hands and we were both laughing. A good way to remember a good friend.
Dan you were a great friend and we will all miss you.
My deepest condolences to Kim, Joseph and Michael.
Stephen Casey
Like many others I met Dan at Leeds Poly in 1986 and had the pleasure of his humour, footballing knowledge and of course planning wisdom for many years. One of the happiest and funniest times of playing football with Dan was our Polytechnic league and cup double winning side the Grolsch Gremlins (1987-88 season) - named after our favourite half time drink and in the famous green bottle.
ReplyDeleteThe Cup Final Programme that year included a profile on each of the players. Dan was the midfield general who sat back, mainly because he couldn’t run, and fed the ball to me and Bathy to do all the work. I tried to dig out the programme without success but I remember his description quite vividly as it brought mass laughter in the dressing room. It read:
Dan Devine (Midfield) – “Irish git who wallows in peat bogs and eats potatoes “.
This summed up Dan’s humour, and he probably edited the description himself. He could make others laugh and he could laugh at himself. Far from an Irish git, Dan was an Irish gent, although as to wallowing in peat bogs and eating potatoes rumour has it they were accurate descriptions.
Dan was a true gent, a very kind, generous and funny man and it’s such a shock that he is gone. Dan you will be very badly missed and my thoughts go to you and to Kim and Joseph
Phil
Paddy McGarrigle said
ReplyDeleteIt's a long time since I have seen Dan but looking at these photos and reading the poignant tributes reminds me of him growing up a few years behind me in the Bowling Green and Butcher Street. It is obvious that Dan was cherished as a friend in both his childhood and adult days. I recall vividly his cheerful personality, friendly smile and love of football and conversation. He has passed away too young but obviously greatly enhanced the lives of those who had the privilege of his friendship.These lovely comments and stories are a fitting tribute and I'm sure in days to come will be a source of comfort to his grieving family and fiends. Rest in Peace Daniel. Deepest sympathies to wife Kim, son Joseph and brother Michael.
i first met dan in the early 1980's when we both came to leeds. i walked up to this jovial irishman clad in a black biker jacket by a lake in the north east on a field trip on the first day of our college course and we shared a cigarette that we struggled to light . we laughed from the start and our friendship began. my life is full of dan moments and fond memories - it was he that taught me that there was " a small pint of milk ", that you could go to the toilet ,perform and announce that " you could hang a gate on it " and how to hide from the milkman when you owed him money. we enjoyed our college life , probably too much at times. we were such good friends that we both decided to fail our 2nd year and do it all again - probably as a result of bedroom footy which was a perfect substitute for planning theory !
ReplyDeleteMusic was close to our hearts - checked shirts done up at the collar as we pogoed around to big country,u2 and simple minds and being carried around by the crowd at the alarm gig to " 68 guns " will always make me smile . dan also taught me that an austin maestro car has 5 gears on a weekend trip to edinburgh - possibly the funniest road trip i can remember and there were a few in a small blue fiesta with a 4.8 litre engine - we would probably have got to edinburgh earlier had we not stopped for a drivers grill - dan was not renowned for skimping on his food or taking adequate time to enjoy it !- his ridiculous knowledge of old jokes which were repeated time and again were hilarious - i remember one of the funniest things i heard playing football with dan at bedquilts - dan was on the left wing - hugging the touchline - not going very far but rolling the ball back and forth with his left foot so noone could get near - the oppo defender shouted " mark the wide man " to which the recognisable devine retort was " why don't you call me fat like everyone else " this sums up a quite remarkable person . a more jovial and thoughtful man i have never met - he never moaned about his health although i knew it frustrated him and he always had a story - i started to understand him after about 2 years - the early dialect was fun - he was at ease in anyone's company- like so many others dan's character ,humour and presence were my enjoyment . dan was also my best man , as my best chum this was the easiest decision i have ever had to make - as you might expect he looked after me and i am very proud that he agreed - i knew dan for over 25 years and it was an honour and a privilege - people like him don't often enter our lives but i feel very lucky that i had time with him - his loss has saddened me deeply . i wish i had spent more time in his company over recent years but like others i have an incredible number of memorable moments which i will treasure for the rest of my life. his impression on me and the times we spent together were filled with laughter and this is my abiding memory of dan which i will carry with me always . from one celt to another rest easy mate - with love from my kin to yours - bathy
Gareth Jones
ReplyDeleteOnly just found and still in a state of shock really. I suppose that like many others at work I had assumed that Danny was on the mend having been quite ill for the previous couple of years.
But then again Danny never did dwell on his health struggles and was probably the nicest and most cheerful blokes I have ever met.
He really took me under his wing when I first started at Leeds as he did with all us planning rookies in the householder team and always had time for chat whether planning or more often sport related.
My thoughts are with Kim and Joseph at this difficult time. Gaz
You're the man.
ReplyDeleteYou're the man.
ReplyDeleteMy parents went on holiday once leaving me as sole occupant of the house and with an account at the little shop across the road. Why they thought that would work is a different matter.
ReplyDeleteAnyway, identifying an opportunity for some low key hedonism, several including Dan established camp ... and remained for the full 2 weeks.
While I was cooking and cleaning the rest of them were abusing (with extreme prejudice) the small shop across the road' account. I spent ages engaged in intense negotiations trying to convince Gerry (small shop man) that letting my parents seeing the tab was not an option and somehow all the contraband on the list would have to be converted into spuds and other assorted vegetables.
After a full 2 weeks and a 'small shop' crisis, Dan announced he better get back home.
Dan lived next door!
I miss him profoundly.
Tom
Kim, Joseph, How you must feel, I don't know. When you read these messages as I just have, you can be certain that you have shared the life of a very special person, one of the best I ever knew.
ReplyDeleteIn all the years I knew Dan I never heard him utter a bad word for anyone. But it was the positives that really marked him out, that earned the respect, admiration and love of those lucky enough to spend time with him.
Rest Easy
Ian Andrews
We met Dan through my sister and brother-in-law Sharon and Frank Harrison,and what a pleasure it was to have known him.
ReplyDeleteThose who were not fortunate enough to have met Dan have missed out,he was always happy and smiling, and cared about others.
Dan was so special and will stay in our thoughts forever.
Deepest sympathies to Kim, Joseph and Michael.
Goodnight and God Bless Dan, keep smiling.
XXXXXXXXXXXXX
Paul,Mary,Ailish,Ciara and Aidan Heneghan
All the preceding comments sums it up for me. What a hell of a nice fella. I clearly remember the day he left strabane for the first time to go over to Leeds (the rest of the gang were there in the Bowling Green to wave him off. It was the end of an era I suppose but it still seems somehow strange to me that Dan ultimately spent more time in Leeds, and in the company of his Leeds gang. But how i'M glad he did because it sounds like he built the most happy, contented and fulfiling life for himself in Leeds.
ReplyDeletePre-Leeds, I'll remember with great fondness the school and the school bus; the discos/learning to drink; Portnoo in the summer; football all year-round, the snooker and the card schools and even a bit of cricket, and of course the music.
Rest in peace.
Paul Christy (Lifford/Strabane)
It has been a true honour and privilege to have know Dan for many years. Always smiling, never complaining about the struggles that life threw at him. I have total utter respect to his outlook on life, and for making everyone he met welcome and important.
ReplyDeleteDan, you were a true "gentle"man. The world has been robbed of a fantastic, genuine, caring, kind and thoughtful man.
Your memory will stay alive in our hearts forever!!
God bless Dan, sleep well xx
My love and deepest sympathy for Kim, Joseph, Michael and all family and friends xx
With love Michelle Page
I'm writing this with a heavy heart and i'm still trying to understand why, You've been taken from us.It's hit us like a bolt out of nowhere, as i really believed you'd turned the corner.
ReplyDeleteI remember the last chat we had last friday, of course it was to do with football. we were laughing and joking and for that i will always be grateful.
As your smile and laugh will live on and will be missed by everyone who had the honour of knowing you.Your smile was always there even when you was in pain, you always amazed me as with everthing you was going through you'd still want to know everyone else was ok.I'd come to see you in hospital and you'd be checking I was ok. Even though it was you who was ill and suffering.
I have many happy and fond memories of the chats we had. But what sticks in my mind right now and puts a smile on my face when i think about it. Is the smile that would spread across you face whenever you spoke of Joseph.
You was so proud of him and it showed everytime you spoke about him.
You was a very special man Dan.Am so glad i had the chance to know you in and out of work.
Kim and Joseph my heart aches for you both and for you sad loss of a great husband and a wonderful dad.
Michael and your family your brother and uncle was one special man and will be missed always.
Dan in Tina Turners words'YOUR SIMPLE THE BEST'
Love You and God Bless Always
Susan,Caldon, Karah & Conor xxxxxxxxxxx
This poem gave my family and myself some comfort in the past -
ReplyDeleteI have only slipped away into the next room
I am I and you are you
Whatever we were to each other
That we are still
Call me by my old familiar name
Speak to me in the easy way you always used
Put no difference into your tone
Wear no forced air of solemnity or sorrow
Laugh as we always laughed
At the little jokes we always enjoyed together
Play, smile, think of me
Let my name be ever the household word that it always was
Let it be spoken without effort
Without the ghost of a shadow in it
Life means all that it ever meant
It is the same as it ever was
There is absolute unbroken continuity
What is death but a negligible accident?
Why should I be out of mind
Because I am out of sight?
I am waiting for you for an interval
Somewhere very near
Just around the corner
All is well.
Nothing is past; nothing is lost
One brief moment and all will be as it was before
How we shall laugh at the trouble of parting when we meet again!
I was so deeply shocked and saddened to hear the dreadful news. Dan was such an inspiration to us all the way he just got on with life in a very cheerful and pleasant manner despite all the health problems he had to endure. He will be sadly missed by all.
ReplyDeleteMy thoughts are with Kim, Joseph and all the family at thia very sad time.
Love Christine Kelsall x
Fond memoeries of Leeds 84 - 88 and Dan and his silky skills for the Grolsch Gremlins, will always remember his happy demenaour and easy going way. will never forget the decision to put our names on the back of the footie shirts as per the Bulagrian team (all ending in ...ov). Thoughts are with all his kin.
ReplyDeletePhil Hughes
I remember Friday and Saturday nights at Rich Hall and the student bars 83-86. We just bounced along - everyone knew Dan and he always put you at ease. A great man.It was truly an honour to have known him and my thoughts go out to his family.
ReplyDeleteMark Crawford said...
ReplyDeleteI knew Dan through the Poly planners and later at the Leeds Accies. So sad to hear the news, and like so many I cannot really believe it. One of life's true gents, a funny guy and a friend to everyone...and anyone!
My thoughts are with his family at this time.
God bless, Dan.
Where do I start with Dan! Words simply fail me and for you that know me that’s no mean feat. From wet Sundays in Ballinascreen (hardened GAA fans only will recognise this one) to nights in Felix’s, Mc Elroy’s, Patsy’s and all sorts of venues to the detailed analysis of our conquests or lack of more likely afterwards in the Bowling Green, Dan was central to my life for so many years.
ReplyDeleteAfter school days some friendships die but with Dan it just got stronger and moved to a different level. Thankfully growing older didn’t suppress too much of our childish humour and Dan’s wit was unbeatable and legendary. I always felt better and more grounded on what was important in life after a chat with Dan.
I introduced Dan into my aspects of my life and groups of people that he had never met before and without fail he always created a lasting impression. My father used to always say “show me your friends and I will tell you what you are!” Dan was always my defence and boy what a quality defence.
In later years it never ceased to amaze me of the number of best man, grooms men, god father roles he got. Looking at these comments it’s obvious why and he was my obvious choice.
Kim and Joseph I know from Daniel how much you enriched his life and under all that humour there was a soft and tender person with a fantastic spirit who loved you deeply.
It has been a great honour to know him and to be able to call him a best friend. His memory will live with me forever. I have so many happy memories that I will pass on to my family, one of the more recent ones being Dan abandoning the wheelchair in Croke Park in September of last year to celebrate Tyrone’s victory. As Dan would say “Poetry in Motion!”
Tyrone abu!
God Bless Daniel!
I also grew up with Daniel in the Bowling Green - another Campbell and nine years older than Dan.He spent a lot of time in our house as he was best friends with my sister Barbara. He was such a lovely boy, always full of smiles, chat and questions. He was interested in everything and everybody. I have memories of him having long chats with my Dad about his farm - I really believed the Devines had a small holding somewhere.
ReplyDeleteWhen I think of Dan there is always one occassion which pops into my head and I laugh as uproariously about it now as I did 35yrs ago.
I was 18yrs old and my friends and I all thought we were the height of maturity and sophistication. A friend who I will describe as "plump" was visiting and Daniel arrived. He immediatley made friends with her and launched into a conversation asking her all sorts of questions about herself. Then he dared ask that question that you should never ask a woman !!!
"What age are you"
"18" she replied.
9 year old Dan paused, looked her up and down and then said,
"You're very big for your age aren't you?"
We all exploded with laughter much to Dans amusement. You could see he was really pleased he made us laugh even though he couldn't understand how.
Over the years we went our separate ways and on a few occasions I bumped into Dan in Felix's or around the Bowling Green when we were both at home. He was always the same - chatty, smiley and inquisitive, interested in all the family - it was always lovely to see him.
To Kim and Joseph and all the family my thoughts and prayers are with you all at this desperatley sad time.
Michael, to lose Daniel so soon after your Mum is a very hard burden to bear and you are very much in my thoughts right now.
I just have to comment on the fabulous picture gallery you have put together - so lovely to see Dan so happy and to have a glimpse of Daniel's other world.
Has anyone else noticed the uncanny likeness to his Dad - picture "Dan taking the menu very seriously indeed"
Well Dan you're with your Mum and Dad now and I'm sure they are smothering you with love and looking after you well.
Rest in peace Danny Boy.
I met Dan when I was eight. I am disabled and people normally talk down to me but Dan never did - thanks Dan. You were larger than life, always laughing. If there were more people like you in the world, it would be a better place = we've lost a good 'un.
ReplyDeleteI'll always remember you Dan.
Lots of love to Kim and Joseph
I never had the pleasure of working with you Dan, but my first memory of you is in the kitchen at work making a sandwich for Kim and I thought what a nice man you were for doing that. I now know from reading all the comments that you were more than just a nice man, you were a true gent and always thought of others before yourself. You had an ear for music and knew talent when you heard it. You were sat at Kim’s desk one lunch time and turned round as you heard such a wonderful sound coming from behind you from 3 of her ‘girls’, you then said that we reminded you of the Sheila’s Wheels ads !
ReplyDeleteYou will be missed by everyone that knew you.
Our thoughts and love are with Kim, Joseph and all the family
Pam, Alex and family
Playing football in the park.
ReplyDeleteThrowing darts in your bedroom.
Going for a "drive" (smoke) in my Da's car.
Wasting time (and annoying anyone who passed)at your front wall.
All my memories are happy ones.
God Bless.
Titch.
What a great guy. Like so many others, I was fortunate to work with Dan and even more lucky to sit next to him for around a year or so. Having Dan around made work so much more enjoyable for everyone, but he was much more than just fun, he trained and advised so many and lots of people, including me, benefited greatly from his knowledge and willingness to help.
ReplyDeleteI spent yesterday afternoon enjoying the game at Elland Road remembering you and thinking that Leeds had saved their best performance of the season in memory of you - it certainly felt that way to me. MOT.
So much has been said in everyone's comments and there will be more. I remember always a smile, always a laugh and a joke. 'Whaddabutya' - so Dan. And Leeds United - I hope your watching Dan and they do it for yer.
ReplyDeleteOur thoughts are with you Kim and Joseph.
Derek, Jackie, Joe and Sam
I was the junior member of the the Bowling Green/Butcher St crew and as such was the annoying little sister that all big brothers and sisters had to have around!! Dan was another big brother to me except that I don't remember him ever telling me off but I do remember him looking after me and taking me home on many occasions of scratched knees, split lips etc.. after many games of cricket out the Derry Road or whatever games were in progress around the block the time!
ReplyDeleteI haven't seen Dan for years but I know through Malachy and Colette how happy and settled he was in his role as husband, Dad and friend and I can see from these comments that he has remained the same lovely, warm and kind person that I remember from many years ago.
Rest in Peace Dan - you leave us all with great memories - so thank you!
Aideen
James and I met Dan through his close friends Sharon and Frank many years ago. We all spent some great weekends together, travelling between Manchester and Leeds. I had the privilege of standing side by side with Dan on two memorable occasions. The first time was at Sharon and Frank's wedding where he was Frank's best man and I was Sharon's bridesmaid. Then a few years later we were both chosen to be Godparents for their daughter Ruth, a role I know he was honoured and delighted to accept. We hadn't seen Dan recently but, as everyone has written here, he was someone you never forgot and always remembered as just such a lovely guy. We are privileged to have known such a well loved and respected man.
ReplyDeleteOur love and thoughts are with Kim, Joseph and Michael and we hope these wonderful testaments bring you all some comfort in the coming months and years.
Carpe diem.
Love Hellie, James, Abigail and Madeleine x
Dan Devine was one of the nicest fellers I ever met, with his infectious smile and affable nature it was impossible not to like him from the start. I first met Dan when I was at Leeds Poly through his friendship (and my own) with Mike.
ReplyDeleteIt was through Preno that I would be kept up to date with Dan, indeed meeting up with him on several occasions over the years.
Even with this small involvment in my life it is richer for it, and my thoughts go out to Dan's family and friends....who were his life and he theirs.
Goodnight Godbless Dan
Murph
Dan, true gentleman, top husband and father. Like so many others on here I'm so privileged I had the chance to work in a team with Dan. It was about 7 years ago, 6th flr Merrion. Dan was the one in the team providing the daily banter and wicked jokes that had us all in hysterics and he was also the kind calm team member that gave unlimited support and guidance even when he was stressed out.
ReplyDeleteI had the honour of knowing Dan for 10 years and I never heard a moan or groan from him. His positivity to life was uplifting to all around him and he will be sorely missed.
Kim and Joseph my love and thoughts are with you xx
Dan,
ReplyDeleteI will not be there to see you make you final journey today, but rest easy in the knowledge that when you arrive at your destination you will have the sun on your back as you will be in heaven and will be looking down on us all. It is clear from the comments above that you have touched so many people in an all too brief a stay. Have a good Journey Dan and I hope we will meet again at some time in the future.
Sad and shocked.
ReplyDeleteDan used to often watch his good friend Frank Harrison play for Halifax Town and he came into contact with a few professional footballers. Dan told me a story about meeting a few of them in someone' flat before a night out. Footy in the flat began and the professionals (having had a drink or two) could only keep the football up less than 10 times. Dan was still going strong at 70 plus when he was suddenly fouled by a present Premiership Manager who had enough of Dan's QUALITY on the ball. To me that word is what Dan was about - great QUALITY as a person and an inspiration to others.
My condolences to Kim and Joseph.
The funeral today was a wonderful testament to the man. You could sense not only the sadness but also the love out there from so MANY people.
ReplyDeleteThe eulogies were quite outstanding. Guys, Dan would have been so proud of you and we were too. You said it all and unbelievably well. Michael Prenton, you
have not only scored one of the sweetest strikes I've ever seen but now as good a speech I've ever heard. Thank you.
Dan was indeed a lovely man and I loved working with him as co-manager of the Acas in the mid-90s. We weren't quite Clough and Taylor but agreed on most things until the 1sts got to the cup-final and Dan wanted to buy a special new kit. Being the tight Yorkie I wasn't keen but on this, as on most occasions, I was charmed into acquiescence by that lovely Irish brogue and one of Kim's
Beeston cups of tea.
Even on such a tragic day it was lovely to see so many people whom Dan introduced to the club and with whom we shared such good memories.
Kim and Joseph our thoughts are with you. "When they built you, brother,they broke the mould."
The tributes from today's funeral were wonderful. WOuld it be possible to have the text posted on this site so everyone can read them? Thanks
ReplyDeleteThey say we are spiritual beings having a human experience. Dan was a spirit to all who knew him and now he is back with the angels.
ReplyDeleteI was going to quote the poem by Christina Rossetti'Remember me' but whilst going through her poems came accross this and for some reason it remined me of Dan and could hear him saying it with the Irish lilt and wisdom that never failed to make us all smile no matter what the situation
If All Were Rain And Never Sun
If all were rain and never sun,
No bow could span the hill;
If all were sun and never rain,
There�d be no rainbow still.
Now you can watch over Kim and Joseph and keep them safe from 'upstairs' while we do our best to look after them for you from down here.
It was a pleasure and honour to know you
God bless
Linda Banks
I will miss you Dan.
ReplyDeleteRIP friend x
It would be lovely if someone had a photo of Daniel's Mum and Dad and his brother Michael and family to add to the album.
ReplyDeleteI am still at a loss for words. Dan was one of the kindest, gentlest and most genuine human beings I've had the honour of meeting.
ReplyDeleteHe always had a kind word for others and he lit up every stairwell and corridor he walked down with his positivity.
I know he will be missed by so many and my heart goes out to you Kim and Joseph and to all of Dan's family. Your in my thoughts and prayers.
God bless Dan, sleep tight.
Rachel Phillips
Wednesday 4th December 1991 was a big night for me, one that will live long in the memory. "What are you doing tonight?" Dan asked. "Nothing much," I said. "Right, we're going to Goodison," he said. My first trip to see my football team in the flesh had been organised by Dan and Preno. We lost 4-1 (to Leeds as it happens!) but I didn't care. I must have smiled for a week. Such was the generosity of the man. I had arrived at short notice in Leeds to study at the Poly but I had no accommodation. Dan's mother (who was my mother's Godmother) put me up and I stayed on the floor of his flat in Burley for a few weeks. He made it easy for me. It was my first time away from home but he spent time showing me around Leeds, the best pubs, the best takeaways (Theo's Charcoal Grill springs to mind! Dan called it, "The finest kebab shop in Leeds") and when I moved into Halls, he made sure I was ok. I knew Dan had been in poor health but it was still a huge shock to hear of his untimely passing. I pass on my heartfelt condolences to his family, Kim, Joseph and Michael. RIP Dan.
ReplyDeleteMay those who love us, love us;
and those who don't love us,
may God turn their hearts;
and if He doesn't turn their hearts,
may he turn their ankles
so we'll know them by their limping.
Such a shock to hear of Dan's passing. He was such a lovely man and will always be remembered with great fondness. He always managed to make me smile even when I wasn't feeling too well myself. Condolences to Kim and Joseph who will miss Dan so much as will all of us.
ReplyDeletedear dan a great son-in-law great husband and dad will miss your smile and courage love you doreen
ReplyDeleteI had not seen Dan in over twenty years and only recently heard he had passed away ,he was a lovely guy a gentle giant and gone to soon
ReplyDeleteP devlin strabane