Hugh Grant, a stalwart of the Dalhousie Golf Club for many decades, died on January 30, 2009, after a brave fight against illness. He was 83.
Hugh was Captain of the club in 1980-82 and was a council member for many years. In or out of office, his enthusiasm for the club, for Carnoustie Links and for the game of golf was immense.
A great supporter of the club - in matches at both club and senior level - he also revelled in the social activities, none more so than the Christmas dinner-dances in the old clubhouse which would end with Hugh distributing hymn sheets and leading the gathering in carols, around the Christmas tree and fireplace.
On Saturdays he played with the old Twelve O'Clockers and then became an enthusiastic and regular member of the Ten O'Clockers. He won the Dalhousie Cup in 1969 and 1980, but, as Past Captain Gordon Ellis recalled in his moving tribute at Hugh's funeral, Hugh appeared to enjoy his golf just as much if he happened to be on the losing side as he did when victorious. He made his mark across Carnoustie Links as well, advising the Committee on the planting and management of trees. When health problems prevented Hugh from playing as much in the latter couple of years, he still enjoyed joining "the boys" for a half pint after the Saturday game.
The respect and admiration in which Hugh was held were reinforced by the large turnout of club members at his funeral service in Forfar and at the graveside at Panbride Churchyard.
Hugh served with the 6th Armoured Division in Italy and the Middle East during the Second World War. He became chairman of Carnoustie Round Table and was widely known and respected in the farming world. As a chartered land surveyor, he was estate factor on the Panmure Estate, Carnoustie, before becoming factor of the Lour estate near Forfar. His wide expertise enabled him to serve with distinction on many agriculture-related bodies.
Fishing was another passion of Hugh's - and like all anglers he had an abundance of stories on his experiences.
In Forfar he was an elder of St Margaret's Parish Church and for many years was a supporter of the Salvation Army .
A gentleman of the old school but not afraid to speak his mind when he could contribute positively to a debate, Hugh will be sadly missed. His late wife Ishbel was also a regular and enthusiastic participant in club social events. The club's condolences go to their son Donald and to their granddaughter in Spain.
( FOOTNOTE: Hugh had one perennial gripe - about the whin bushes in front of the ninth tee on the Buddon Links Course, which not only presented a physical barrier to be overcome from the back tee but could also make sight of the ball difficult when - and if - it reached the fairway. Hugh's wish has at last been granted by the Links, with the removal of many of the offending bushes. Sadly, he did not live to see the improvement; doubtless, however, he will now be looking down on the course with some satisfaction! )