Graeme Tosh, a much-respected former Tayside Police sergeant and amateur footballer, has died peacefully at home aged 72, following a courageous battle with Alzheimer’s disease.
Known for his warmth, integrity, and steadfast commitment to both family and public service, Graeme died on May 24, surrounded by the love of his family in the Blairgowrie home he had built with his wife, Fiona.
He lived a life of many chapters – policeman, football teammate, ghillie, gardener, and philanthropist – but above all, he was a devoted family man.
In a heartfelt tribute, his family said: “Graeme will be remembered not just for his service, but for his spirit.
“He was our rock, our constant, and our greatest champion.
“He met life with kindness, humour and dignity, and he leaves behind a legacy of love.”
Love of football and rugby from young age
Born on January 1, 1953, at Fernbrae Hospital in Dundee, Graeme was the youngest of George and Helen Tosh’s four children.
His early life was spent at Hilton of Knapp near Inchture, where he grew up with siblings Helen, Eunice, and George.
Though the family farmed the land, young Graeme’s passions took him off the fields and onto the pitch.
A talented sportsman, Graeme’s love for football was evident from a young age.
He played for Blairgowrie Amateurs and Rattray Amateurs and was even capped for the Scottish Police team.
He also enjoyed cricket at Meigle and rugby while attending Harris Academy.
Graeme was never far from a game, whether playing or cheering from the sidelines.
When did Graeme Tosh join the police?
After a short stint at the Clydesdale Bank – drawn in, he joked, by “a love of maths and money” – Graeme joined Perth and Kinross Constabulary at 19, training at Tulliallan before taking up his first post in Kinross.
A transfer to Blairgowrie soon followed, where he lodged with three fellow young officers, including John Lamb, who became a lifelong friend.
It was at a dance at the Moorfield Hotel where fate intervened and Graeme met Fiona.
She had already taken note of the young constable when he helped someone break into their own car – legally, of course.
Their courtship led to marriage in June 1978 at Muirton House, followed by a honeymoon in Aviemore.
The couple’s life together began in the police house at Stanley, and in early 1980, they welcomed their first child, Eion.
Tragically, Eion died just seven months later – a devastating loss that left a deep mark on the couple.
“There is no heartbreak like the loss of a child,” said a family member, “but Graeme always made sure Eion was remembered.”
A dedicated family man who was ‘dependable and deeply principled’
In 1981, son Gordon was born, followed by daughter Mandy in 1983.
Graeme was a dedicated father – present despite demanding shift work.
Gordon recalls a dad who was strict but fair, while Mandy fondly described him as her “idol,” often shadowing him around the house and loving their reading time together.
Graeme’s career in the police saw him stationed in Perth, Stanley, and Blairgowrie, including time in the Control Room.
His promotion to sergeant was hard-earned and widely respected.
Even among those he had to arrest, Graeme was regarded as “one of the good ones.”
Colleagues described him as dependable and deeply principled, the kind of officer who inspired trust.
In and out of uniform, his sincerity and sense of justice left a lasting impression on both peers and the public.
What did Graeme enjoy outside of uniform?
Beyond the job, Graeme remained a man of action and curiosity.
He shared long walks with his children, football games at Dens Park, and even conquered Ben Nevis with Mandy.
He took up golf and mountain biking and was a member of Strathmore Golf Club.
The Tosh family home in Rattray, and later in John Street where they lived for 28 years, was a place of warmth and togetherness.
Holidays to Spain, Pontins, and Haven parks created a treasure trove of happy memories.
After retiring from the force, Graeme embarked on a new path as a ghillie on the Invercauld Estate in Glenshee, under the mentorship of head gamekeeper Graham Kerr.
The pair became close friends, and the role allowed Tosh to combine his love of nature with a new camaraderie.
Later, he worked as a gardener at Balgersho House, joined there by Fiona as housekeeper – a team once again.
Passionate fundraiser for Maggie’s Centre
Graeme’s generosity of spirit extended beyond work and family.
He was a passionate fundraiser for Maggie’s Centre, participating in physically demanding challenges including the Monster Bike and Hike, and a high-altitude trek through Ladakh, India.
He took in the majestic beauty of the Himalayas – and the Taj Mahal – on a trip that reflected his adventurous spirit and deep humanity.
In later years, Graeme became a proud and devoted grandfather to Jamie, Leah, Carly, and Stuart.
Whether cheering from the sidelines at football matches or listening to Stuart practice the pipes, he relished his role as “Papa,” offering encouragement and unconditional support.
Impact of Alzheimer’s’ disease
Three years ago, Graeme was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease.
True to character, he met the news with grace and openness.
Though the disease gradually robbed him of the ability to do what he loved – cycling, walking, even simple daily tasks – he never lost his warmth or wit.
His final months were spent at home, cared for by Fiona, Gordon, and Mandy, surrounded by the love that had defined his life.
He died peacefully, leaving behind a family heartbroken but full of gratitude for the years they had with him.
Graeme is survived by Fiona, his wife and best friend; his children Gordon and Mandy; daughter-in-law Linzi and son-in-law Andrew.
He is also survived by grandchildren Jamie, Leah, Carly, and Stuart; and siblings Helen, Eunice, and George. He is reunited now with baby Eion, the son who never left his heart.
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