I only knew Alan for 3 1/2 years but he had the type of personality that grew on you. He was sociable and loved to drop by with some excuse or another, but it was really to visit. Whatever the subject he was prepared and enthused, especially politics, and particularly the American political fiasco.

He was a proud Scot. He shared many stories about his family and his father who served in British Special Forces. But mostly his Scottish heritage was foremost. He was frugal.

We played a round of golf shortly after he moved in. On the 16th hole, a 495 yard par 5, Alan ripped one done the center to everyone’s surprise, including himself. When he asked about his second shot, I suggested a fairway wood which would leave him short of a large mound, about 100 yards from the green. He leaned into it and hit the ball over the mound. We knew he was on the green with a putt for eagle or a birdie. As our foursome approached the green, we immediately tried to locate his ball. We cleared the sand traps and the rough on the back side. As we continued to search one of our foursome decided to putt out. He called out; “another ball in the cup.” A double eagle. Rarer than a hole in one. We were ecstatic with fist bumps all around.

As we walked to our cart, I noticed that Alan seemed rather subdued. When I asked him why he wasn’t more excited, he replied, “Oh, I am. I am happy that I found my ball”. A true Scot.

Treasured memories of my cousin Alan, when he was 9 years old he was in Scotland for the very first time,where we spent the summer between paisley and sunny Millport where we went fishing, swimming in the sea and cycling round the island.  As we grow older and years passed few visits to Canada helped us re bond and make new memories. I will always remember Alan for his quick wit and his love of a good debate! 

Alan was my cousin, my friend and he will never be forgotten. 

With love, 

Big cuz David