Former Dundee United and Forfar Athletic player, dad-of-two Harry Mollison has died aged 70.
St Mary’s boy
Henry Fenwick Mollison, always known as Harry, was born on February 15 1953 in Dundee.
The middle of three children for Margaret and Edward Mollison, he lived in St Mary’s and his sole ambition as a youngster was to play football.
On leaving education Harry’s first paid job saw his hopes become a reality.
Playing for junior sides initially, on July 1 1971 he was signed for Dundee United under the management of Jerry Kerr.
“My dad was a Dundee United supporter so he really was living his dream,” said daughter Erin Mollison.
Career change
Harry remained with United until 1972 then went on to play for Forfar Athletic and Carnoustie Panmure.
However, although his football career was shorter than he had envisaged he found career fulfilment in social work.
Harry completed teacher training in Dundee then qualified as a social worker.
It was then he met Anne Duncan – also in social work.
The couple, both from Dundee, married in Kirriemuir Registry Office in 1987.
Later that year their daughter Erin was born, and in 1989 a son – Calum – arrived.
By the late 90s the couple separated but Harry remained in social work for Angus Council until he retired.
“My dad loved his job – he really cared about people and was dedicated to what he did,” added Calum, Harry’s son.
‘Salt of the earth man’
In retirement Harry maintained a passion for sport. He played squash, badminton and five-a-side football.
Not even a diagnosis of early onset Alzheimer’s just after his 61st birthday stopped him. For another five years – until he was physically unable – he kept participating in sport.
In later life Harry moved from his home in Kirriemuir into sheltered housing on Greendykes Road, Dundee. Latterly he resided at Pitkerro Care Home.
Erin added: “My dad was salt of the earth. We would tease him for always being in a holey jumper but he just wasn’t materialistic.
“He was funny, kind, was always on the go and could fix anything. He was so good at his job and loved being an ex-footballer and I think the reason he was so good at what he did was because he was so humble.
“My dad valued people for their character. That’s a lovely way to be.”
Tannadice once more
After a short period of palliative care, Harry died on February 25, surrounded by family.
A celebration of his life took place on March 13 at Dundee Crematorium.
The funeral car made one last trip past Tannadice and more than 300 people turned out to pay their last respects.
Almost £700 was raised on the day for dementia support hub Kirrie Connections where Harry attended.
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