Obituary: Eddie Wilson

Jul 2 2009 Blairgowrie Advertiser

TRIBUTES were paid to former Kirkmichael Primary School head teacher Eddie Wilson, who died last Monday (June 22).

Mr Wilson was 61 and had been ill for some time.

A large congregation of mourners at Perth Crematorium on Friday included representatives from the teaching profession throughout the area, as well as many from a wide circle of friends he and his wife Pam, a former school teacher, had made during their time in Perthshire.

One of the tributes was from MSP John Swinney, a close friend of Eddie and Pam.

Mr Swinney said he first got to know Eddie Wilson through their commitment to the Scottish National Party, but his great contribution to the life of people in East Perthshire was through his distinguished 20-year term as the much respected and admired head teacher of Kirkmichael Primary School.

''Eddie was a very practical man who could turn his hand to anything,'' Mr Swinney said. ''He built and renovated numerous properties for his family. He undertook an endless stream of practical tasks from mechanics to tree felling.

''Eddie believed that children required a broad education that picked up on vast amounts of practical experience that enhanced their abilities in life. The programme at Kirkmichael was always diverse, challenging, entertaining, and inspiring.

''The pupils of Kirkmichael left with a great rounded education, their minds challenged, their practical skills tested. And whether it was in the curriculum or not, Eddie made sure they knew their own country’s history.

The service was conducted by the Rev. Dr Hugh Ormiston.