Sadness as Inverness parkrun volunteer passes away after brave battle against illness
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Tributes have been paid to a popular local runner and parkrun enthusiast who passed away at the weekend.
Kirkhill man Dave Carstairs had battled illness “with positivity and stoicism” to complete his milestone 250th bow at the Torvean 5k walk, jog and run event only three weeks ago.
The retired schoolteacher, who taught at Forres Academy, had been an avid runner and regular participant at the weekly Saturday morning get-together for many years, while also serving as volunteer 141 times.
He is survived by wife Moira, daughters Annelise and Pippa, and grandchildren.
A statement on behalf of the Torvean Parkrun group passed on sincere condolences to his family.
It said: “Dave was a regular runner at Torvean since our inception and, before that, from the early days of Inverness parkrun.
“Dave was joined by his daughter Annelise and her three children each Saturday for several years, uniquely making them our only regular three-generational family.
“Dave dealt with his recent diagnosis with positivity and stoicism, determined to reach his 250th parkrun milestone.
“He achieved this just three weeks ago as a parkwalker, alongside his Muir of Ord Jogscotland friends.
“He also volunteered 141 times, but also almost as many times at Torvean junior parkrun where, despite his grandchildren having reached the maximum age for participation, he turned up every week to support the next generation.
“Thank you Dave on behalf of both Torvean core teams and our runners for your company, kindness and support.
Friends paid tribute on social media.
Lisa Murphy wrote: “Dave was a lovely man and a great inspiration to many. Condolences to the family.”
Fiona Gordon said: “Love to all Dave’s family. I loved our chats and especially our cat’n’mouse ‘race’ we had with each other. Dave definitely had the upper hand in them.”
And Cynth Duncan added: “Absolutely gutted to see this post. Dave Carstairs was an amazing runner. Thinking of all his family and running buddies.”
