A north-east community stalwart and ballroom dancing aficionado has died at the age of 88.
John Will was one of the driving forces behind the Old Torry Community Centre in Aberdeen, but had many interests.
He enjoyed dancing with his beloved wife Gladys – the pair were married for more than 70 years – organising art classes, pursuing the city’s heritage and serving as a community councillor.
The plumber-by-trade moved from a flat in Inverurie to the house, next to the Old Torry Community Centre, which he occupied until his death at Aberdeen Royal Infirmary.
Over the years, he patiently acquired all the neighbouring flats in the block so that his whole family could live under the same roof.
John Dunn, the chairman of Torry Heritage Group, said Mr Will had been instrumental in creating so many initiatives at the grassroots over a period of decades.
He added: “John was a very quiet, clever, unassuming man who was highly respected by everybody who had dealings with him.
”He and his devoted Gladys were married in 1948 and they were great ballroom dancers, who held dance classes for many years. He was also a talented artist and often sat in on classes at the community centre, mentoring and encouraging artists of all ages.
”John was also a volunteer, cashier and trustee at the centre and was a long-serving community councillor on Old Torry Community Council.
”He and Gladys were both enthusiastic members of Torry Heritage Group and, despite both suffering failing health, they actively joined in and contributed to our activities,
”They both managed to come to our Christmas party and enjoyed meeting up with everybody and catching up on what had been happening.”
Mr Will is survived by his wife and their children, Ian, Patricia and Pauline. A celebration of his life is being held at Aberdeen Crematorium’s east chapel today at 1pm.
