Northern Ireland motorcycling legend Philip McCallen pays tribute to brother Ronnie, who 'helped me immensely'
Motorcycling racing legend Philip McCallen has paid tribute to his brother Ronnie after his death, saying he supported him "immensely" throughout his career and helped him build up his motorcycle business in Lurgan.
Eleven-time Isle of Man TT winner Philip McCallen paid tribute after the death of his brother on Friday.
A family notice said that Ronnie “passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loving family”.
He was recalled as "the dearly loved son" of Betty and the late Eric, much loved father of Brett (Rebecca) and Scott, loving granda of Louie, a dear brother of Phillip (Manda) and Noel and uncle (Katie and Tommy).
Ronnie's funeral service took place in Mullavilly Parish Church, near Tandragee on Monday 7 September.
Philip announced the passing of his "much-loved brother" on social media, noting the health challenges which confined Ronnie to a wheelchair - but never defeated his spirit.
"Ronnie was not only my brother, but a huge part of my life and my racing journey," he said.
"He supported me immensely throughout my racing career, and we shared so many memories through our love of motorcycles and racing, before he moved on into World Super Bikes with Honda Racing Corporation, to become [double World Superbike champion]
Colin Edward’s engine builder. What an achievement!"
"Sadly, his health eventually prevented him from continuing in this role he loved, and he returned home.
"He then gave me his support once again, helping me to build my motorcycle business in Lurgan."
Over the years Ronnie faced significant challenges, Philip said.
His health continued to deteriorate and he was confined to a wheelchair for the past 15 years.
"But anyone who knew Ronnie knew that giving up simply wasn’t in his nature. His determination, strength and love of racing never left him.”
In recent years Ronnie and his son Brett, built their own race team, and this year achieved their first road race entries.
"I know just how much this meant to Ronnie and how incredibly proud he was to have a road race team with his son Brett."
Philip said he will "always admire my brother" for the way he faced his illness.
"Despite everything, he kept going, kept planning and kept his passion for racing alive. I am so proud of all that he achieved."
Ronnie passed away peacefully on Friday evening, surrounded by his family who meant so much to him.
Other figures from the world of motorcycling racing also paid tribute.
Anne Forsythe of the North Armagh Motorcycle and Car Club (Tarmac Section) Ltd, expressed their sincere condolences to club members Brett and Philip.
"Our thoughts and prayers are with you and the whole family circle," she said.
Classic Bike Festival Ireland said they too were "saddened" by the news and would like to express "sincere condolences" to Phillip, his mother and brother Noel as well as the rest of the family circle.
• The McCallen family invited donations in lieu of flowers to the MS Society, c/o Jackson Stoops & Sons, Funeral Directors, TDI House, 92 Market Street, Tandragee BT62 2BP or online at www.jstoops.co.uk