Championships chief marshal and motor trade legend dies at 81

TRIBUTE has been paid to a “larger than life” St Andrews golfing legend, motor trade businessman and grandfather who died on the morning of his wife and childhood sweetheart’s funeral.

St Andrews Golf Club member and former Dunhill Links Championship chief marshal Forbes Stephen, 81, died peacefully at St Andrews Community Hospital on April 9.

Born in Aberdeen on July 12 1942, Forbes grew up in Inverbervie. In his youth, he was a talented footballer, tennis player, and good all-round athlete.

He was also a strong s w i m m e r, and once rescued a drowning man.

Forbes began his career as a trainee motor mechanic in Montrose, but it was at a dance in Stonehaven at 15 that he met Margaret, then 14.

They wed on September 16 1961 at Inverbervie Parish Church, moving to Dundee when Forbes began working for Blue Star Garage, and later to Kirriemuir.

Forbes switched to work for a car battery manufacturer, and his outgoing personality suited a management role.

In March 1971, the family moved to Balmullo where they raised their children Dawn and Hamish.

Forbes went on the road selling parts from a seven tonne truck before setting up his own business. The couple ran a taxi firm to help finance it.

The business was later sold to Dingbro Ltd but Forbes continued working for 30 years, retiring at 74.

In the 1990s, the couple spent most weekends at their static caravan near Crieff where they enjoyed hillwalking and time with their grandchildren.

Forbes never lost his liking of sports and after taking up golf, it became a passion. He was greatly involved in the Dunhill and Open Championships at St Andrews for many years as head crossing marshal.

Recognition of his commitment to the golfing community came when the Forbes Stephen Trophy was named. He is survived by Dawn and Hamish and grandchildren Christopher, Michael, Jamie and Sadie.

Forbes Stephen was well known in golf community.