The Late Bertie Vickers

Bartholomew Victors, better known as 'Bertie', sadly passed away earlier this year.
Bertie was well known for his music having played in many bands in his lifetime. From showbands in his early years to country bands in recent years, right up until he went to entertain the Heavenly Angels. During his time he played with many wonderful musicians and singers such as Tommy Hayden, John Ryder, Andy Connolly, Josie Keane, Gerry Feely and the late and sadly missed Pater McKenna to name a few.
Aside from his love of accordion music Bertie was an accomplished sax player and probably better known for keeping the beat, as he played the drums. He was also responsible for passing the entertainment bug to each member of his family. His wife Kathleen and eldest son Dermot both act in amateur dramatics with Newtown Drama Group, and his youngest son Ger followed directly in his footsteps by also playing the drums.
A very sincere and kind man, his generous spirit was often demonstrated as he provided entertainment on many occasions for charity events senior citizen parties and various fundraisers.
Bertie was a loyal employee to Ted Castle Holdings for 30 years, a job he loved and took great pride in as he worked for and alongside some lovely people.
A keen supporter of the GAA, Bertie could be seen on any given Sunday travelling to Aughrim to watch the Wicklow team play. He would also watch every county final no matter who was contesting it and enjoyed it as much as if it were his own favourite team playing. He loved the banter in the crowd during match day and would regal family and friends with stories and anecdotes he had heard from the crowd and sidelines.
These humourous stories along with his love for comedy shows like 'Only Fools and Horses' were a great source of entertainment to Bertie. No matter what small troubles or ailments we had in our family he would quote a line from 'Del Boy' all the while trying to contain his laughter as he was quoting these lines.
'Dad was a loving husband, a doting father and grandfather, a true gentleman, a great friend to everyone who knew him but, above all he was a role model and someone both Dermot and Ger will always look up to for the rest of our days here on earth. God Bless and keep you, Dad.
'Words could never express how much we Mam, Dermot and Ger- miss you. Thank you for some many wonderful memories.

Kathleen, Dermot and Ger.

Courtesy of the Wicklow People
April 21st 2010 Tweet

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