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The Grand Master of the Grand Orange Lodge of Ireland, Edward Stevenson, has led tributes to Ian Wilson, past Grand Master of the Grand Orange Lodge of Scotland, who died suddenly on Sunday.
Mr Wilson, who served as Grand Master of the Grand Orange Lodge of Scotland between 1994 and 2010, suffered a stroke and died surrounded by his family.
Edward Stevenson offered his sympathies to the Wilson family and highlighted Ian Wilson’s dedication and significant contribution to the Orange Institution.
“It was with shock and much sadness that I learned of the sudden passing of Ian Wilson, past Grand Master of the Grand Orange Lodge of Scotland,” said Mr Stevenson.
“There is no doubt Ian was fully dedicated to the Orange Order and his contribution to the work of the Order in Scotland cannot be overstated. He was a gentleman and his sudden passing will come as a big loss.
“He was very active during his time as Grand Master working to raise the profile of the Orange Order in Scotland and even when he had stepped down from that role, he continued to work tirelessly for the good of Orangeism.
“I offer my sympathies and those of the Grand Orange Lodge of Ireland and indeed the entire Orange Family to Ian’s wife, Helen, and the family at this very difficult time.”
Mervyn Bishop, Imperial Grand Secretary, said he was shocked by the news of Mr Wilson’s sudden passing.
Mr Bishop said: “The Orange Family throughout the world was deeply shocked and saddened by the sudden death of Most Worshipful Brother Ian Wilson, Past Imperial President and Past Imperial Grand Master.
“Ian was held in great affection by the Brethren and Sisters within the nine jurisdictions. He devoted a lot of his time and energy in promoting the principles of the Orange Institution, which was carried out in his quiet-spoken and gracious manner.
“The Brethren and Sisters of the Worldwide Orange Family will be remembering the Wilson family circle in their thoughts and prayers at this sad time.”
As well as being a prominent and active member of the Orange Order, Mr Wilson was responsible for developing the Orange Torch publication into a professional and wide-reaching magazine. He continued in his role as editor until his passing.
He was also active within his church and played an active role fund-raising for a number of charities.