Donny Strathie, from Grangemouth, Falkirk, passed away suddenly in Boston on Sunday, June 14, aged 76.
The lifelong Scotland supporter had journeyed to the United States to support Steve Clarke’s side on the greatest stage of all and had even obtained his ticket for Friday night’s fixture against Morocco. Tragically, he never had the opportunity to witness the match he had longed to attend, Daily Record reports.
Now, his family, friends and fellow supporters are appealing to the Tartan Army to unite and honour him during the fixture. A poster circulating online is encouraging Scotland fans to participate in a minute’s applause during the 76th minute of the World Cup encounter in recognition of Donny’s age.
It states: “One minute applause tribute to Donny Strathie. Tartan Army footsoldier who died in Boston on Sunday, June 14. Share and spread the word: One minute applause tribute in the 76th minute of Scotland v Morocco.
“Donny sadly passed away suddenly in Boston on Sunday aged 76. He had his ticket to the match and it was his dream to see Scotland in the World Cup but he never got the chance. Lets make him proud.”
Donny was a prominent figure within his local community and captained the Bowhouse Pool team. His daughters, Denise Strathie and Cheryl Strathie, have both posted photographs of their father in tribute as an outpouring of affection and sympathy continues for the beloved man.
Cheryl Strathie shared the appeal, saying: “Please share on any platform. Let’s see if we can all make this happen Dad.”
Lynne Easton replied to a tribute photo posted by Denise Strathie, saying: “So so sorry about your Dad. We are all gutted and sending our love. A great guy who lived life the right way from his parish walks to his football and his family. Love to you all and here to help in any way.”
Karen Keegan McPheat said: “So very sad. He was so lovely and cheery. He was saying last week to watch out for him on tv. He will be missed.”
Posting in the Falkirk Chit Chat Pool League group, David Jerrett wrote: “Just heard sad news Donny Strathie, a stalwart of the pool league for years, captain of the Bowhouse has passed away. He was in Boston watching his beloved Scotland. Rest easy pal from the pool world.”
Lee Stevenson said: “Oh that’s so sad. I’m glad the last thing he did was doing something he loved. I hope he saw Scotland win their first match.”
Graham Rae added: “Such a shock. He was in ours just before he went away? Great guy as well. RIP.”