Ian Maclean Fraser lived with a passion for life and curiosity for the world and its cultures. In his 87 years he played professional football, married, raised a family, travelled to every corner of the globe, and documented his adventures in a series of humorous writings. The consummate provider, he hand-built his first home while raising a family in a small caravan on the same lot. He was funny with an entertaining satirical wit. He never complained, he was a free thinker before out of box thinking was a thing. He travelled through life with wide-eyed, childlike wonder. He coached, mentored, probed, and challenged opposing opinions to broaden other’s thinking and world view. He listened and learned using his knowledge to creatively make a difference.
He fiercely loved his wife of 63 years, Ann (nee Getty). He gave her flowers every year on their anniversary and could always make her giggle uncontrollably. Their love was one for the ages.
Born in Glasgow, Scotland in 1935, his early days were in the wake of World War II. He remembers evacuating to bomb shelters when Clydeside shipyards were bombed. He was the oldest of three brothers (Ian, Colin and Alister) and grew up in Maryhill on the banks of the Forth and Clyde Canal. He excelled in school and continued his education becoming a Civil Engineer. His first job was with British Rail, checking the West Highland Line, dangling from heights on the Forth Bridge, and constructing Britain’s largest rail yard. He then worked for James Sim Limited in Glasgow. Finally, a job with Daniel Construction in Irvine, Scotland, took him to Arabia, America and beyond.
In 1980, he moved to South Carolina and established a home base. From there he travelled the world with his work and gained a vast knowledge of many countries. He embraced cultural diversity with the people he met. He always came home with amazing stories of food, clothing, and customs he encountered. No matter where he travelled, Scotland was always in his heart. As Robert Burns described, “My heart’s in the Highlands wherever I roam”.
He was a blue-nose Glasgow Ranger and a traveling member of The Tartan Army, always chasing The Beautiful Game. He coached football and played until he was 69 years old.
Ian is survived by his wife Ann, his children Leslie (Scott), Jill (Ross) and wee Ian (Susan), his grandchildren Cameron, Kirstin and Brodie and his brother Alister (Rose). His extended family includes Sheila, Andrew (Viv), Eilidh (George), Shona (Mark), Kyle (Nicky), Laura (Karl), Paula (Grant), Don, Leo, Eva, Mia, Greta, Lila, Jem and Seb. He is preceded in death by his parents John and Ann, his beloved daughter Karen, and his brother Colin.
The family are tremendously grateful to his caregivers, especially Hospice of the Upstate for their kindness and care in his final days. In lieu of flowers, expensive gifts and whisky, donations can be made to Hospice of the Upstate. Hospice of the Upstate, https://hospiceoftheupstate.com/
A celebration of life for Ian will be held at 11:00 AM on Saturday, April 8th, 2023 at the Village Center at Rolling Green Village, 1 Hoke Smith Blvd, Greenville, SC 29615.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.mackeycenturydrive.com for the Fraser family.
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