A Dungannon businessman and publican has died. Sean McAleer, co-founder of McAleer’s Bar, passed away on Thursday. He was the brother of Fermanagh and South Tyrone MP Pat Cullen.

Ms Cullen posted on social media that the McAleer sisters were heartbroken and that she loved him deeply.

McAleer opened the pub in 1979 with his wife Rosemarie. The premises remains family-run. The couple’s children announced the death on the pub’s Facebook page, saying the family was devastated.

McAleer had a lifelong involvement with Gaelic games. He came from the Termonmaguirc parish and played for Loughmacrory’s first team in 1972. He later became a member, sponsor and former youth manager of Dungannon Thomas Clarkes club, which described him as a deeply saddened member of their community.

He is survived by his wife Rosemarie, sons Conor, Justin and Sean Paul, and six grandchildren. His sisters include Bridie, Anna, Monica, Petra and Pat. He was predeceased by his sister Margaret and his parents Paddy and Annie.

A wake will be held at the family home at 5 Castleview Heights in Dungannon on Friday and Saturday from midday to 10pm. The funeral Mass will take place on Sunday at St Patrick’s Church, Dungannon, at 11am.

Tributes from across the community described him as a gentleman and a dedicated GAA supporter.