
RNLI Kessock mourn tragic loss of lifeboat legend Stan MacRae
The volunteers at RNLI Kessock lifeboat were devastated this week by the news that one of their longest serving and widely loved crew members unexpectedly passed away in the early hours of Tuesday 14 February 2023.
Members of the Search and Rescue and Emergency Services Community from across Scotland and the wider UK have poured condolences to the station and to the family of Mr MacRae.
Stan joined the RNLI in 1997, 26 years ago today, and has been an integral part of the Kessock Lifeboat community ever since. Stan’s long service covered many roles and he was personally involved in the rescues of more than 200 people at sea, including 20 recorded lives saved.
Stan joined the Royal National Lifeboat Institute as a crew member, soon progressing to Helm and latterly holding roles as Mechanic and Launch Vehicle Driver. Most recently Stan has contributed to the Station Management Team with time as Operations Manager and Launch Authority.
He is remembered for his support to trainee crew and extensive knowledge and experience, which he shared generously close to home and farther afield to support Lifeboat stations around the country. He is also best remembered for his huge character, mischievous sense of humour and friendly support to all who had the pleasure volunteering or working alongside him.
A notable chapter in Stan’s volunteer career was from 2009 in the Flood Rescue Team where he contributed to inland rescue situations and furthered his reputation around the UK as a steady hand and guiding influence in any emergency situation.
Tributes are pouring in to the RNLI Kessock Facebook and Station Inbox and members of the public will shortly be able to sign an online Book Of Condolence to record their memories and sympathies for Stan’s family.
A spokesperson for the Royal National Lifeboat Institution said, “Thank you so much for your incredible dedication to saving lives at sea, Stan. Our thoughts are with family, friends and the crew.”
ENDS
RNLI media contacts
Yvette Kershaw , Lifeboat Press Officer, 07809 116153, [email protected]
Natasha Bennett, RNLI Regional Media Officer for Scotland, 07826 900639, [email protected]
Martin Macnamara, RNLI Regional Media Manager for Scotland, 07920 365929, [email protected]
RNLI Press Office, 01202 336789
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