Frank was an amazing man with tremendous ability, focus, empathy, sense of humour, intelligence & self belief.  He did not tolerate arrogance, snobbery, liars or hurtful gossip.  In social interchange, he did not hesitate to intervene, politely but forcibly if necessary if someone was being bullied or insulted.  Carol was the only person who had notable success in keeping Frank in order.  Sadly, life events & Covid  curtailed our meetings &, indeed, have damaged the wide ranging Highland social structure curtailing all of us into family “ bubbles “. 

Justin & Bradley will grieve individuallly & together & no words can in any way alleviate the loss of their father.  It will remain a chasm of sadness @ the absence of presence.  Although we haven’t met for several years, memories & laughter are so easily recalled.  

We have so many memories of Highland Balls where our ‘set’ eclipsed all more conventional, rather wooden sets who concentrated on remembering stages  rather than enjoying the fluidity of the dance.  Lots of tricks like holding onto the dancer’s kilt, pretending to’place’ a partner in the wrong place or even set highlighted the essential intrinsic component of Highland reels, enjoyment!  Historically dancing reells kept clansmen fit for battle with other clans or countries & the courage of Highland regiments in both world wars is well documented.

in conclusion, all of us who have drifted apart & permitted the complex pattern of dealing with normal life to restrict fun & interaction with like minded people.  We will now, perhaps, beware normality.

Au revoir Frank, till we meet again.