Remembering loch crash pilot
Tragedy in Kinross-shire marked 77 years on Perth’s farewell to beloved Adam
Tay Street in Perth came to a standstill yesterday as hundreds turned out for the funeral of Adam Pattinson.
Celebrated sportsman Adam died on February 28 aged just 36. He was killed while riding his bike to work on the A912 near Bridge of Earn.
Adam’s sudden death touched many lives across the region - he was married with a young son, was a popular teacher at Craigclowan Preparatory School and former captain of Perthshire Rugby Club.
On Saturday a minute’s silence was held before kick off at Perthshire Rugby Club in tribute to Adam.
The team retired his number four shirt for the remainder of this season.
In the match programme, Perthshire Rugby chief executive Allan Brown wrote of his grief:“Last week we tragically lost our friend, team mate and‘true gent’, Adam Pattinson.
“Ads played a huge part in the life and soul of our club for many, many years and our hearts are broken and we are truly devastated.
“I am extremely privileged to say that I personally played alongside Adam for a great number of years and we shared many fond memories of some fantastic games and victories.
“Adam was a tremendous guy to have on your side. A brilliant player, captain and leader with passion and inspiration in abundance.
“Our thoughts and love from everyone at Perthshire Rugby are with Claire, Fraser and Adam’s family.”
On Thursday morning Tay Street was cleared of parked cars to allow for access to St Matthew’s Church for the hundreds of family and friends who
came to say goodbye to a “gentle giant”.
Police outriders stopped traffic from passing the church front door while a piper marked the arrival of Adam’s family.
Adam’s rugby shirt draped his coffin which was carried by a squad of rugby teammates.
Young pupils from
Craigclowan lined the kerb opposite the church, some holding flags with the black and white colours of Adam’s cherished club.
The service was broadcast on speakers into the street to cater for the number of people who wished to hear the tribute to his life.
Humanist celebrant Jane Bechtel said she had only recently got to know Adam and his wife Claire over the naming ceremony for their young son Fraser in December.
She added:“I’m not going to pretend I’m not affected by Adam’s loss, but I hope you won’t find this occasion too full of doom and gloom. Adam’s life was filled with laughter, sharing joy with friends and family.”
A warm and loving eulogy was given by a close friend who admitted speaking at the service was“the hardest thing I have ever done”.
Describing Adam as“a legend, a role model, a gentle giant, the kindest”, he spoke of growing up in Scone with Adam like a“big little brother”.
“Adam was sometimes like an excitable puppy, needing reigning in with his huge sense of fun.
“I’m so proud of the man, husband and father he became.
“He was the best of all of us. He will be sorely missed by so many.”
Adam’s parents asked that a retiring collection be made at St Matthew’s“for the creation of a lasting memorial, befitting our wonderful son, brother, husband and father. Always loving; always loved.”