Tributes have been paid to a north-east community stalwart who has lost his battle with cancer.
Henry Fraser Chapman – also known as Harry – was awarded an MBE in the 2001 Queen’s New Year’s Honours for services to New Deer.
Mr Chapman died aged 87 on July 21 – eight days after being diagnosed with lung cancer.
His wife Mary said: “He was very popular and was always at the centre of community life in New Deer. He loved his family and spent his final days in our loving home.”
Mr Chapman was a former chairman of New Deer Community Association and a long-standing trustee.
A lifelong farmer who chose not to retire, Mr Chapman owned land bordering the New Deer Show ground and helped organise parking and other issues.
He was also known to many as a light commercial vehicle salesman.
New Deer Community Association chairman Mel Keenan said: “Harry was a champion of the village, working tirelessly for the benefit of the community, never asking the slightest gain or honour for himself.
“He led the association efforts to preserve the doctor’s surgery in the village. Alas, we could not succeed but Harry, while fighting hard, maintained his quiet polite manner and sense of humour.”
Central Buchan councillor Norman Smith said: “I knew Harry well as a constituent and friend.
“Harry was involved in many projects and helped many organisations within and around New Deer. He will be sadly missed by all.”
Mr Chapman’s funeral was taking place at St Kane’s Church, New Deer, today. He had been an elder at the church for more than 50 years.
He leaves daughter Linda and the late Alison, grandchildren Carly, Cath, Lara and Matt, and great grandchildren Oli, Harry, Elsie and Lachie.
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