Many of you will already have heard of the sad passing of long-term life member, John Gow. John joined RWSABC in 1971 and had been a lifelong supporter of the club.
He never married and lived in Cumberland Road most, if not all of his life. His parents passed away in the early 90’s and his younger brother in 1996. In many ways the Royal West were his family.
Most people who frequent the clubhouse will know him to see, but he was a quiet man and not given to small talk. That said he was also very kind and would wait at the end of the night to assist the bar staff and ensure that all was well.
John worked for many years in the offices of a local sugar factory as well as doing some work within the Royal West.
He had a keen interest in music and the theatre, and undertook regular visits to the Glasgow theatres and the Royal Conservatoire, in addition to local venues.
John was a Morton supporter and frequently attended games. He could demonstrate a wide knowledge of Scottish football.
He was reluctant to accept help with transport when offered, preferring to use the local taxi services which he used on a daily basis. Recently, several taxi drivers have asked me how Mr Gow was doing. It was clear from my conversations that he was liked and respected.
In his later years, John coped stoically with COPD and emphysema, which badly affected his breathing. He required oxygen following a hospital admission last year and never left his house until he went back into hospital in March this year. He was however, not forgotten, and a few members and bar staff maintained contact, notably to celebrate his 80th birthday with gifts and a cake and on another occasion, to present him with his 50yr RWSABC membership badge on Friday 24th March. Sadly, John passed away 6 days later on Thursday 30th March.
There will be some time before his funeral takes place but an announcement will be made when information is available.
Pictured below, is John in happier times, together with fellow member, Robert Todd.
Rose Sloan
Vice President
