Members of the Society who have Recently Passed

O we hae wandered far an’ wide,
O’er Scotia’s land o firth an’ fell,
An’ mony a simple flo’er we’ve culled,
An’ twined them wi’ the heather-bell:
We’ve ranged the dingle and the dell,
The hamlet an’ the baron’s ha’;
Now let us tak a kind farewell-
Good night, an’ joy be wi’ ye a’!

– Good Night, An’ Joy Be Wi Ye A’, James Hogg

Donald John (Iain) Morrison Macfarlane

Sept 30, 1925 – April 24, 2016

Iain died peacefully in his sleep on April 24, 2016 at Carefree Lodge. He is survived by his beloved wife of 55 years, Cathie, as well family in Canada and Scotland. Born in Scalpay, Scotland on September 30, 1925, Iain followed his heart to Canada where he married Cathie MacVicar on July 30, 1960.

A native Gaelic speaker and expert Scottish Country Dancer, Iain devoted himself to promoting the culture of his native country in Toronto. He taught the Calvin social group of the RSCDS Toronto Branch for 22 years. Known as a meticulous adjudicator and teacher, Iain was in demand as a teacher of Scottish Country Dancing throughout Canada and the United States. He became Chairman of the Toronto Branch of the RSCDS from 1963 to1965. Iain also served as Chairman of Mod Ontario, an organization dedicated to promoting Scottish Gaelic music and literature. From 1983-1985, Iain was President of The St. Andrew’s Society of Toronto (est. 1836), a charitable and cultural organization best known for the St Andrew’s Ball held every November. Iain’s business career was as a manager with the Guardian Insurance Company. In retirement he volunteered for many years at St. Michael’s Hospital as well as for Meals on Wheels. A generous and caring man, Iain’s kindness and Scots practicality made him a friend and support to many.

Cremation and a private interment have taken place. A memorial service will be held at Leaside United Church, 822 Millwood Road, on Thursday May 12, 2016 at 10:30 a.m.

Donations may be made in Iain’s memory to the St. Andrew’s Society of Toronto.

Ray Fraser

September 29, 1926 – May 8, 2016

We are sad to announce that Ray Fraser, a long standing member of the Society passed has passed away.
He had been a member of the Society for well over 30 years and was very was very active in the Society, including chair of the Ball Committee.

Ray attended Maurice Cody Public School and North Toronto Collegiate Institute and was a member of St. Paul’s AYPA and Air Cadets in his early years. Ray thoroughly enjoyed his career as a trader on the floor of the Toronto Stock Exchange. He started there at 18 and stayed until retirement. True to his Scottish roots, he had a love for the pipes and drums, and scotch, and was also active in the Royal Scottish Country Dance Society. He was also a founding member of the Greenthumbs, a part of the Sunnybrook Volunteer Association. Ray was a keen bridge player, avid gardener and he cherished his time in Bruce County and at the cottage on Lake Huron.

Donations may be made in Ray’s memory to the Sunnybrook Volunteer Association or the St. Andrew’s Society of Toronto