The Perthshire community is deeply saddened by the passing of Reverend Robin Fergus Paterson, who, at the age of 92, leaves behind a profound legacy as a truly gentle and kind-hearted soul. Known affectionately as a ‘Perthshire boy’, Rev Paterson carried a distinguished family heritage as the grandson of the acclaimed artist James Paterson, a prominent figure in the renowned ‘Glasgow Boys’ movement.
Throughout his extensive life, he dedicated many years to serving the Scottish Episcopal Church, providing solace and spiritual guidance to parishioners across numerous communities within the Perthshire region. His son, Hamish Paterson, reflected on his father’s remarkable journey, highlighting how he truly led a rich and varied existence, a sentiment warmly shared by all who had the privilege of knowing him. A Life of Faith, Family, and Global Adventures
Beyond his profound commitment to his spiritual calling, Reverend Paterson harboured a lifelong passion for maritime pursuits. In his youth, he found joy in waterskiing and handling motor-powered boats, a love that evolved into tranquil sailing expeditions on the picturesque Loch Earn and the majestic River Tay in his later years, alongside adventures on the waters of Singapore.
Born on December 4, 1932, in the serene parish of Tibbermore, just outside Perth, Robin’s roots were firmly planted in the heart of the region he so loved. His early education began at the historic Perth Academy, where he spent formative years from seven to twelve, before venturing further afield for his studies. A brief period at a preparatory school in Helensburgh preceded four pivotal years at Trinity College Glenalmond, a distinguished institution nestled in the scenic Perthshire countryside near his hometown.
After completing his schooling in 1950, Robin answered the call of National Service, dedicating two years to the Royal Engineers. His commitment to service continued with his involvement in the Territorial Army, where his leadership qualities saw him rise to the rank of captain. His civilian career commenced in 1952 with General Accident, a prominent insurance company headquartered in Perth. It was here, in the foreign department, that he gained his initial professional experience. From Perth to the Far East and Back
An exciting opportunity arose in 1955 when he transferred internally to Singapore, marking the beginning of a significant 33-year period spent living and working in the vibrant Far East. Even while abroad, his sense of duty remained strong. He volunteered for army service in Singapore, undertaking active duties in the challenging jungles of what was then Malaya, combating Chinese communists. For his bravery and service, he was rightfully awarded a Defence Medal.
A profound personal milestone occurred in 1958 when he met Julia, whose father was stationed with the Royal Air Force in Singapore. Their union was celebrated in February 1960 at St John’s Cathedral in Hong Kong, initiating a blissful marriage that would span an impressive 65 years. Their family flourished with the arrival of four sons: Rory, born in Singapore in November 1960; Alasdair, who appeared in January 1962 in Kuala Lumpur, where Robin had transitioned to a role with L’Union de Paris; Hamish, who joined them in August 1963, also in Kuala Lumpur; and finally Angus, whose birth in Singapore in July 1970 completed the family.
His career continued to advance, returning to Singapore in 1965 to join London & Pacific Insurance Company. His expertise soon led to him being headhunted in 1968 by Edward Lumley & Sons, a London-based insurance broker, where he rose to become managing director of their Far East operations, serving with unwavering dedication for 27 years. Devotion to Ministry and Community
A significant turning point came in 1985, as Robin embraced early part-retirement in Singapore. This strategic decision allowed him to devote more time and energy to his theological studies and pastoral duties, a path that had gradually grown in importance in his life. Alongside his extensive charity work, which included supporting organisations like the Mission to Seafarers and the Scottish Medical China Mission, his commitment to the church deepened. He and Julia were long-standing worshippers at St John’s and St Margaret’s Church in Singapore, where he found profound purpose. This spiritual journey culminated in his ordination as a deacon by the Bishop of Singapore in 1987. Following this, he assumed a non-stipendiary role as a deacon at St George’s, the historic church associated with the former British military headquarters.
In 1988, Reverend Paterson returned to his beloved Scotland, immediately immersing himself in the service of the Scottish Episcopal Church across Perthshire. His ministry extended to parishioners in the picturesque areas of Crieff, Comrie, along Loch Earn, and around Loch Tay, offering guidance and support to those in need. His dedication led him to a full-time position in 1993 at St Mary’s Church in Birnam and Dunkeld, where he served for five years, also extending his support to the parish of Strathtay, further cementing his ties to the local spiritual landscape.
Even in what was meant to be full retirement, Reverend Paterson’s commitment to his faith remained undiminished. He continued his ministerial work, not only in Scotland but also across the Costa Blanca, diligently serving eight churches situated between Alicante and Valencia until as recently as 2021. A Practical Man with a Generous Spirit
His innate practicality, perhaps fuelled by his lifelong affinity for boats and the sea, made him a remarkable ‘fixer’ of all manner of things. From intricate toys to boats and cars – particularly his cherished Jaguars, which he predominantly drove throughout his adult life – he approached every challenge with ingenuity. His son, Hamish Paterson, fondly remembered his father’s knack for improvisation and repair, often joking that a bottle of inexpensive super glue was always within his reach, reflecting his readiness to mend and improve anything he could.
Indeed, Reverend Paterson embodied the spirit of a truly gentle and kind-hearted soul, dedicating a significant portion of his life to the service of others. His altruism extended beyond his pastoral duties, deeply engaging with various charities both in Singapore and Scotland, such as the Mission to Seafarers and the Scottish Medical China Mission, leaving an indelible mark on countless lives.
A devoted husband to Julia for over six decades, a cherished father to his four sons, and a beloved grandfather, Reverend Robin Fergus Paterson passed away peacefully in Glasgow on August 18th. A service to celebrate his remarkable life was held at All Saint’s Church in Glencarse, a tranquil village nestled near Perth, on Friday, September 5th.
Throughout his extensive life, he dedicated many years to serving the Scottish Episcopal Church, providing solace and spiritual guidance to parishioners across numerous communities within the Perthshire region. His son, Hamish Paterson, reflected on his father’s remarkable journey, highlighting how he truly led a rich and varied existence, a sentiment warmly shared by all who had the privilege of knowing him. A Life of Faith, Family, and Global Adventures
Beyond his profound commitment to his spiritual calling, Reverend Paterson harboured a lifelong passion for maritime pursuits. In his youth, he found joy in waterskiing and handling motor-powered boats, a love that evolved into tranquil sailing expeditions on the picturesque Loch Earn and the majestic River Tay in his later years, alongside adventures on the waters of Singapore.
Born on December 4, 1932, in the serene parish of Tibbermore, just outside Perth, Robin’s roots were firmly planted in the heart of the region he so loved. His early education began at the historic Perth Academy, where he spent formative years from seven to twelve, before venturing further afield for his studies. A brief period at a preparatory school in Helensburgh preceded four pivotal years at Trinity College Glenalmond, a distinguished institution nestled in the scenic Perthshire countryside near his hometown.
After completing his schooling in 1950, Robin answered the call of National Service, dedicating two years to the Royal Engineers. His commitment to service continued with his involvement in the Territorial Army, where his leadership qualities saw him rise to the rank of captain. His civilian career commenced in 1952 with General Accident, a prominent insurance company headquartered in Perth. It was here, in the foreign department, that he gained his initial professional experience. From Perth to the Far East and Back
An exciting opportunity arose in 1955 when he transferred internally to Singapore, marking the beginning of a significant 33-year period spent living and working in the vibrant Far East. Even while abroad, his sense of duty remained strong. He volunteered for army service in Singapore, undertaking active duties in the challenging jungles of what was then Malaya, combating Chinese communists. For his bravery and service, he was rightfully awarded a Defence Medal.
A profound personal milestone occurred in 1958 when he met Julia, whose father was stationed with the Royal Air Force in Singapore. Their union was celebrated in February 1960 at St John’s Cathedral in Hong Kong, initiating a blissful marriage that would span an impressive 65 years. Their family flourished with the arrival of four sons: Rory, born in Singapore in November 1960; Alasdair, who appeared in January 1962 in Kuala Lumpur, where Robin had transitioned to a role with L’Union de Paris; Hamish, who joined them in August 1963, also in Kuala Lumpur; and finally Angus, whose birth in Singapore in July 1970 completed the family.
His career continued to advance, returning to Singapore in 1965 to join London & Pacific Insurance Company. His expertise soon led to him being headhunted in 1968 by Edward Lumley & Sons, a London-based insurance broker, where he rose to become managing director of their Far East operations, serving with unwavering dedication for 27 years. Devotion to Ministry and Community
A significant turning point came in 1985, as Robin embraced early part-retirement in Singapore. This strategic decision allowed him to devote more time and energy to his theological studies and pastoral duties, a path that had gradually grown in importance in his life. Alongside his extensive charity work, which included supporting organisations like the Mission to Seafarers and the Scottish Medical China Mission, his commitment to the church deepened. He and Julia were long-standing worshippers at St John’s and St Margaret’s Church in Singapore, where he found profound purpose. This spiritual journey culminated in his ordination as a deacon by the Bishop of Singapore in 1987. Following this, he assumed a non-stipendiary role as a deacon at St George’s, the historic church associated with the former British military headquarters.
In 1988, Reverend Paterson returned to his beloved Scotland, immediately immersing himself in the service of the Scottish Episcopal Church across Perthshire. His ministry extended to parishioners in the picturesque areas of Crieff, Comrie, along Loch Earn, and around Loch Tay, offering guidance and support to those in need. His dedication led him to a full-time position in 1993 at St Mary’s Church in Birnam and Dunkeld, where he served for five years, also extending his support to the parish of Strathtay, further cementing his ties to the local spiritual landscape.
Even in what was meant to be full retirement, Reverend Paterson’s commitment to his faith remained undiminished. He continued his ministerial work, not only in Scotland but also across the Costa Blanca, diligently serving eight churches situated between Alicante and Valencia until as recently as 2021. A Practical Man with a Generous Spirit
His innate practicality, perhaps fuelled by his lifelong affinity for boats and the sea, made him a remarkable ‘fixer’ of all manner of things. From intricate toys to boats and cars – particularly his cherished Jaguars, which he predominantly drove throughout his adult life – he approached every challenge with ingenuity. His son, Hamish Paterson, fondly remembered his father’s knack for improvisation and repair, often joking that a bottle of inexpensive super glue was always within his reach, reflecting his readiness to mend and improve anything he could.
Indeed, Reverend Paterson embodied the spirit of a truly gentle and kind-hearted soul, dedicating a significant portion of his life to the service of others. His altruism extended beyond his pastoral duties, deeply engaging with various charities both in Singapore and Scotland, such as the Mission to Seafarers and the Scottish Medical China Mission, leaving an indelible mark on countless lives.
A devoted husband to Julia for over six decades, a cherished father to his four sons, and a beloved grandfather, Reverend Robin Fergus Paterson passed away peacefully in Glasgow on August 18th. A service to celebrate his remarkable life was held at All Saint’s Church in Glencarse, a tranquil village nestled near Perth, on Friday, September 5th.