Donald McKenzie, who served as the first Bursar of The High School of Dundee, passed away peacefully on 29 September 2024, aged 90. Born in Perth on 3 March 1934, Donald had a working life that spanned over 55 years.
Donald qualified as an accountant. He completed his National Service in the Army Pay Corps before working for firms in both Dundee and Perth.
Donald is remembered for utilising not just his accountancy skills but his many other qualities including an encyclopaedic memory, his attention to detail, his professionalism and dedication. In 1969 Donald was invited to establish the newly created role of Bursar at The High School of Dundee, having previously served as Assistant Bursar at Glenalmond College. During his 11 years with the High School, Donald took responsibility for all non-academic operations for the then Preparatory, Junior, and Senior Schools alongside Rector Robert Nimmo, a partnership that laid the foundation for a new era in the School’s management. Donald was integral in the negotiation of the purchase of Bonar House for the School.
Donald’s wife Pat also joined him at the High School working in the School Office for a number of years. Both Donald’s daughters, Alison and Evelyn started their School life at The High School in what at that time was the preparatory department before moving on to the Junior School.
Donald was honoured to serve the School in his role as the first Bursar. He was passionate about remaining in touch with former colleagues and keeping up to date with the School news.
After leaving The High School of Dundee in 1980, Donald moved with his family to Pitlochry, where he spent over four decades as Factor of Pitlochry Estate.
Beyond his professional duties, Donald contributed to the broader Dundee and Perthshire area. Donald had a strong sense of civic duty. In the years prior to local government reorganisation in 1974 Donald served as a Councillor on the Council of the then combined County of Perth and Kinross. He served on Committees for Education, the Prison Service and Social Work, including holding the post of Social Work Convenor. Donald was a Bailie and a Justice of the Peace and as such sat as a Judge in the District Court in Perth. He is remembered for dealing with matters in a considered, thoughtful and compassionate manner. The compassion he showed was also reflected in the many hours he spent answering the phone at the Perth Branch of the Samaritans. Donald’s contribution towards the Justice System extended to his service with the Children’s Panel in Dundee. Donald was incredibly proud to be invited to become a member, an Officer and then Captain of the High Constables Senior Division in the city of Perth and gave over 50 years’ service to the Society.
Donald’s knowledge, care, sense of humour, and lifelong dedication to his professions, family and friends enriched the lives of many. He is survived by his daughters, Alison and Evelyn, and his grandchildren Hollie and Toby. Donald will be remembered fondly by all who knew him.
