Frank Anderson: A ‘true Scottish gentleman’

Frank Anderson, a former British Army Desert Rat who fought at both battles of El Alamein, and a much respected and accomplished Scottish mountaineer, has died aged 99.

The first child of David and Helen Anderson, he was born on February 21 1919 on Tay Street, Dundee. He grew up with siblings Muriel, Bob and Betty in Baxter Park Terrace and went to Morgan Academy.

Having trained as a toolmaker with Bonar Long before and after the Second World War, he later moved to the NCR Corporation where he remained until his retirement in the early 1980s.

In 1939 he enlisted in the Signals Corps and spent the war years serving in North Africa and Italy with the Desert Rats.

He was a founder member and lifetime member of Morgan Academy FP Rugby Club and a member of athletics club the Hawkhill Harriers.

He was also a founding member of Carn Dearg Mountaineering Club. He remained an active member of the club until well into his 80s, passing on his love of the hills to all of his many friends and family.

A very quiet man, he was once fittingly described as a “true Scottish gentleman”.

His joy of life shone through and he was always on hand to support his family and friends.

He passed away peacefully at home and leaves behind seven nieces and nephews, 18 greatnieces and nephews and eight great-great-nieces and nephews.

The funeral has already taken place.

Former Desert Rat Frank Anderson.