Death of Ross County ambassador and 'true Highland gentleman' Roddy Mackenzie prompts poignant tribute from former club manager
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THE funeral of a much-loved Gairloch man was held this week amid a flood of tributes to "a true Highland gentleman".
Ross County club ambassador Roddy Mackenzie, who died this month at the age of 84, was described by one as "one of the kindest people I ever had the pleasure of knowing and working with" and as "a rock" by former club manager, player and youth coach, Stuart Kettlewell.
A celebration of the life of Mr Mackenzie, who is survived by his wife of almost 53 years, Lyn, and children Sharon and Iain, was held at The Free Church in Gairloch on Monday.
In lieu of flowers, donations were accepted for the Ross County Foundation to support children from underprivileged backgrounds to access football opportunities.
Supporters had observed a minute of applause in his memory ahead of the Staggies' crunch play-off final second leg victory over Patrick Thistle.
The fact that the dramatic victory secured Premiership status was a source of delight to many.
A message posted on behalf of Stuart Kettlewell said: "One of my dearest friends and best human beings I’ve met, so sad about your passing.
"You were always there as a rock of support to me both as a player, a coach and a manager and even changing your allegiance from time to time to continue that support.
"Never forget us travelling up and down the road winning a Development title.Gone but never forgotten."
A postscript added: "Ps,your team stayed up."
A message posted by his family ahead of this week's funeral said: "We’re hurting badly but dad loved getting the craic so please come out in force.He was some man for one man and loved a gathering!"
David O'Connor said: "I have spent nine years at the club and Roddy was a warm caring man who demonstrated humility and respect and was a genuine asset to our club. There is no accolade too high for what he brought to the club but those who knew him will know we have lost one of the nicest people you could ever meet."
Mr Mackenzie's was a familiar, friendly face in the club's hospitality suites where his gift of putting people at their ease and ability to speak to anyone was clear to see and cherished by many.
His funeral notice said he "absolutely adored" his grandkids Caragh, Ewan and Fiona.
Amongst hundreds of tributes, Morven Reid wrote: "Roddy was one of the kindest people I ever had the pleasure of knowing and working with, a true Highland gentleman."
