Index

John Kyle Kilpatrick Past President, Paul Harris Fellow,

Honorary Member of East Kilbride Rotary Club

Born in 1927 in Govanhill, Glasgow, John was one of four 3 brothers and 1 sister.

John made his first trip out of the city as an evacuee during the years of the war with his brother Joe where they were housed in one of the local farms in Arran. The friendships made in those days lasted more than 50 years with the farmer’s family.

John started his working life as a apprentice joiner, then at the age of 18 he did 3 years service with the Palestine police where he seen the early days of the formation of the State of Israel.

When he returned home he took up a position in sales with wood companies and latterly progressed into starting his own business as successful plywood importer, with his main business operating out of East Kilbride.

He was a knowledgeable man on the subject of our national Bard Robert Burns and he became President of the Bridgeton Burns Club Robert Burns 1967.

In the early days of the new town of East Kilbride John became involved in the formation of the first group for the disabled and became their first President.

He also committed himself to act as Clerk of Works in the construction of the Free Church of Scotland in East Kilbride, he was an active Sunday School teacher in the years when Sunday schools were booming in the new Town.

John was successful in not seeking publicity for himself and quietly gave of himself to others. One avenue for this was through his local East Kilbride Rotary Club where he became President in 1980-81.

For his services to Rotary and his service to “Others before Self” East Kilbride Rotary Club made him a Paul Harris Fellow in 1997 followed later by Honorary membership of his local Club.

The local taxi association ran an annual outing for the people with learning difficulties John sponsored the prize for the best decorated taxi of the day over a period of many years.

He was well read and would on many instances quote from his readings with a great deal of accuracy. Burn’s being one of his favourites'’.

John and Cherry were married for 58 years. They were blessed with two children Douglas and their adored daughter Fiona.

John was a dear “Gramps” to Lyn, Karen, Julie he was Mr. Special in their eyes.

Daughter in Law Rosalind held a special place in the heart of John, who always had that special twinkle in his eye when he referred Rosalind. His special charisma always came to the fore when he was with people. He will be sadly missed by those many people who’s life was touched by his friendship & companionship.