It was with great sadness and deep regret that on Friday 25 August the community of Strathpeffer learned that Ian ‘Tumba’ MacDonald had passed away at his home in Strathpeffer at the age of 64 years.   He had been unwell for some time.

Iain lived his whole life in Strathpeffer and was the youngest of the family of four of the late Iain and Margaret MacDonald, ‘Woodside’, West Park, Strathpeffer.   For some years now he has run the croft there alongside his other work.   In his youth he worked on Achterneed ansd Ardival Farms in Strathpeffer for the late John MacGregor and in later years was employed by Kenneth Stewart (Strathpeffer) Ltd in the road construction industry.   After that company was sold he continued to work for the new owners.

Iain’s family have been involved in Caberfeidh for a long number of years.   His grandfather, the late Roddy Munro, Achterneed, Strathpeffer played prior to the 1^st World War while his other grandfather, Allan MacDonald, Blairninich, Strathpeffer was a long serving committee member from the 1940s for many years.   His uncle, also Allan, also played for the Club.   Iain’s brother Rod and nephews Allan and Brian all played for the Club for many years.   His own son Iain also played until a work injury somewhat curtailed his playing career although he, on occasions, still turns out for the 2^nd team.   Iain’s grandsons Zander, Robbie and Harry are now also involved at primary age level.   Iain was an uncle to Kevin Bartlett and Craig and Blair Morrison.

Iain started playing shinty in Fodderty School, Strathpeffer, then in Dingwall Academy, and finally for Caberfeidh Shinty Club.   He was an ever present member of the 1^st team from the mid 1970s right through until the early 1990s.   He was a fearless player playing for many years as a right wing centre and on occasions as a wing back and elsewhere in the team.   On at least one occasion after his ‘retirement’ he played in goals for the 2^nd team.

Iain will be hugely missed, not only by his family, but by all members of Caberfeidh Shinty Club and also the wider community.   He was indeed a very well liked and highly respected gentleman and member of the community.

Our deepest sympathies go out to Iain’s wife Margaret Ann, his daughter Gillian, son Iain, brother Rod and sisters Margery and Sally, and all their respective partners and families in their sad loss.