Musicians gradually gathered in a corner, unloading their instruments, primarily guitars. They gently strummed their strings, flowing seamlessly from one song to the next, paying a heartfelt musical tribute to the legendary Peter Cresswell at his wake.

A funeral home is not typically where one expects to hear the strums of guitars and the tapping of feet. However, as the wake proceeded, the hum of chatter gradually quieted when musicians began to pluck at their strings. Eventually, the conversation and the music blended together in harmony, as everyone gathered to remember a beloved father, grandfather, friend, and mentor.

80-year-old Pete Cresswell died on June 18 and was one of Fermanagh’s most esteemed musicians. He was a celebrated guitarist who played in numerous bands over the years including: 'Gene and the Gents', 'Bobby Angelo and the Tuxedos', 'Terry Page and the Pageboys', 'Pat McGuigan and the Skyrockets', and 'Ulysses'.

His wake was a break from the traditional wake and took place last Thursday at the funeral home of Marcus Madill Funeral Director in Enniskillen.

There were tears, both sad and happy as people remembered him and sympathised with his family.

But the music played on, blending melody with memories as he would have wanted , photo albums and other personal items remembering the good times were passed around. A small display of 'Gene and the Gents' memorabilia exhibited by Phillip D’Arcy was also on display and drew much attention from those who sympathised with Mr. Cresswell’s family.

The musicians began with Liam Johnston, Henry Pierce, and Eamonn McFarland who played a range of songs including ‘Wish You Were Here’ by Pink Floyd.

Later, they were joined by Shauna McMorrow, Niamh Carney and Philana Nolan and the musicians performed a range of songs including folk music such as ‘Beeswing’ and ‘Will Ye Go, Lassie, Go?’.

The girls led on 'Beeswing' and one by one, the other musicians joined in, harmonising with their voices and blending the tone of their guitars in what was an emotional tribute.

The women and others had enjoyed playing music with Mr. Cresswell as part of folk nights over the year in Blakes of the Hollow, Enniskillen.

Former students of Mr. Cresswell’s and friends, neighbours and family sympathised with Mr. Creswell’s daughters, Janis and Judy and the extended family.

Speaking on behalf of the family, his daughter Judy remembered his role as a devoted Dad, she said: “He was always there for us growing up, He was a brilliant comedian, and he had the biggest heart of gold, everywhere he went, he had jokes and everyone was creasing with laughter.

“He had the biggest heart; he was a big softie. He was constantly caring. He will be terribly missed”

Outside of his music, he was also a huge animal lover, and his dog Buddy was a constant companion.

A celebration for the life of Mr. Cresswell took place at Lakelands Crematorium, Cavan on Friday morning.

Mr. Cresswell’s musical legacy no doubt will leave a mark on the town, he was a highly regarded teacher and was known to repair instruments on occasion, One of those remembering him at his wake said: “Everyone knew Pete, all the generations.”

Born in Kingston in London, Mr. Cresswell moved to Fermanagh 60 years ago to join 'Gene and the Gents'. He lived in Ballinamallard at the time of his death and made Fermanagh his home, immortalising it in his popular song, ‘Enniskillen Town’ which was played as part of his funeral as long with other songs from his catalogue.

Mr. Cresswell was predeceased by his wife Anna and his brother Paul, he is survived by his daughters Janis (David) and Judy, his grandchildren Christopher and Emma and his brother Jeffrey.  

Funeral arrangements were carried out by Marcus Madill Funeral Director.

'Enniskillen Town'

“Oh in Enniskillen Town, in that County called Fermanagh;

That's my home, That's my home, That's my home.

Now I'd really like to stay, soon I've got to go away;

That's my home, That's my home, That's my home.”