The final curtain call for Ron Dale
Happy memories as entertainer dies at 84
The funeral of funny man Ron Dale takes place today ( Wednesday).
And mourners have been asked to ditch black ties and wear bright colours.
The entertainment world are remembering 84- year- old Ron as a real gent and a fine man to have in any line- up.
Ron died peacefully at Ayr Hospital on June 6 and his cremation is at Masonhill at 2pm.
He lived in Seafield for many years with his wife Eve and was described as a “devoted father and papa.”
His real name was Ronald Smail, taking Ron Dale as his stage persona.
For decades the dad- of- three took to stages big and small including the Pavilion in Glasgow.
Out of the spotlight he enjoyed his golf at Prestwick St Nicholas.
It is his local theatre the Gaiety Theatre that is leading the tributes.
The theatre said: “Ron enjoyed many happy years entertaining the people of Ayrshire in productions ranging from ‘ The Jack Milroy Show’ ( 1968) to ‘ The Pie Eyed Piper’ with John Mulvaney ( 1974).
“Ron was a talented multiinstrumentalist and comedian who leaves years of happy memories for audiences in Ayr and beyond. “
Fellow board treader Allan Stewart said: “He was a lovely man. I worked with him for years in the clubs. So sad.”
Ron also raised the laughs at Butlins and small gigs in Mauchline.
And thousands of passengers enjoyed his act on cruise lines.
On social media Colin Risk said: “Ron Dale - talented man - had the pleasure of seeing him perform at the Gaiety a few times years ago. “Funny guy and impressive on the bagpipes! Good company on the golf course - and a gent.”
And Irene Taylor added: “This is very sad news. Ron was a member of St Nicholas Golf Club where I work. He always had a joke for me.”
Ron is survived by his wife Eve, sons Scott and Steven and daughter Sharon.