ICA members were saddened to hear of the death of former member and treasurer Ron Paterson on Tuesday, 24th October, after a short illness.
Ron and his devoted wife Jane became members of the Irish Curling Association in 2004 and Ron’s razor sharp intellect and financial acumen were put to good use when he served as ICA treasurer from 2008 to 2013.
The current ICA treasurer, and President, David Whyte commented that the books Ron kept were “immaculate”.
Ron also enjoyed playing in ICA bonspiels and was a keen competitor on the ice. Off the ice he also enjoyed, and endured, many ICA curling adventures abroad accompanying Jane when she was a member of the Irish ladies team at the European Championships, the European Mixed Championships and the World Seniors. Many a long day Ron spent in the stands as a faithful supporter of Irish teams. He was also the ‘Keeper of the Flags’ and made sure the four provinces banner was in a prominent position and the right way round!
His dry wit and endless curiosity made him excellent company and Ron and Jane were the warmest and most convivial of hosts, opening the doors of their home to many curlers from near and far, always ready to welcome their many friends with a dram and a plateful of Ron’s latest culinary creation – he was also a superb and adventurous cook.
Away for the curling world, Ron was well-known as a salty sea-dog, and sailing was right up there with Jane and their much-loved black lab dogs in his ‘things I really and truly love’ list.
Jane said: “Ron’s abiding passion was sailing. He built an ‘Enterprise’ dinghy in his garage which he and I raced competitively for many years. He went on to compete against the “Big Boys’ in major events on the Clyde and West Coast. To celebrate the millennium, he took part in the Classics Malt Cruise to Islay with family and friends. The highlight of his sailing career was undoubtedly being overall winners of West Highland Week and The Scottish Series in the same year. Quite an achievement.”
After a successful career with IBM, that took him on several overseas assignments including a very happy two years in Minnesota, USA , Ron retired in 2000. He and Jane lived for many years in Skelmorlie before moving to Auchterarder in 2013. He also loved his garden, a passion he shared with Jane, and had many plans for their new home in Perthshire before illness intervened.
He was a true gentleman of impeccable character, who was kind, determined and loyal in equal measure. Ron Paterson served the Irish Curling Association faithfully for many years and will always be remembered and missed by all who were lucky enough to know him.
The sympathy of all the members goes out to Jane at this difficult time.

Jane would like to extend her heartfelt thanks to all ICA members who took the time to send a card and a special thank you to those who came to the funeral. It was very much appreciated.