Tributes paid to badminton legend Ron (86)
Perth sporting stalwart Ron Robertson has passed away at the age of 86.
Ron was a well known face on the sporting scene in Perth, having been a coach and team manager for Perthshire and Scottish badminton.
He passed away on Sunday, June 24, leaving behind his wife Margaret, daughters Lesley and Susan, son William, daughter-inlaw Karen, as well as his grandchildren and greatgrandchildren.
Ron was a former coaching convener and Scottish team manager for BadmintonScotland, and was a highly qualified coach who mentored a number of top Scottish players in the sport.
He also acted as manager to a number of badminton teams throughout the late 1980s and early 1990s.
As a badminton great of the Fair City, he was a long standing president of Perth and District Badminton Association at a time when it covered six league divisions with 38 teams in the Bell’s Scotch Whisky Championships of the Highlands, which attracted top players from across the globe.
However, his love of sport stretched beyond badminton, as he was a keen rugby and cricket player, and was captain of the Dun Whinney Golf Club at Gleneagles from 1975 until 1976.
He was also chairman of Perth and Kinross Sports Council and a past director of Live Active Leisure.
Long-time friend from badminton Ian Brown, who was president of Perth and District Badminton Association from 1991 until only last year, paid tribute to the badminton legend. Ron Robertson
He said: “I first met Ron way back in the 1970s when he was president on the association and I had been appointed secretary.
“I was struck by his immense enthusiasm for the sport which was infectious and we immediately gelled.
“We had a great working relationship during the period Perth and District was at its peak. Many a young player owes Ron a deep sense of gratitude for his outstanding coaching skills.
“He was always very approachable and latterly enjoyed reminiscing on the good years in Perth badminton.
“Ron was a true gentleman, someone I am honoured to call a friend, and he will be sadly missed.”
Mr Robertson’s funeral will be held on Monday, July 2 at 12.30pm in Perth Crematorium.
All friends and family are invited to attend the funeral, although family flowers only has been requested.
A retiring collection will be made at the crematorium for the Friends of St Margaret’s Hospital.