Scottish Rugby is saddened to learn of the death of former Scotland forward Bob Gemmill who passed away on Christmas Day. He was 84.
Bob made his debut for Scotland at lock in an 8-5 victory against France at Murrayfield in 1950. He was only 19 and was one of seven new caps to wear the thistle that day.
Playing his club rugby for Glasgow High School FP he was subject to the perennial debate as to whether he was quite big enough for second-row at international level! He went on to win seven caps playing throughout the remainder of the 1950 Championship and against France, Wales and Ireland in 1951.
He gained a first-class economics degree at Glasgow University and did his National Service with the Royal Signals before working with Proctor and Gamble and then PA Management Consultants.
He then served on the business committee of the general council at Glasgow University and then on the University Court and his contribution to the University was recognised when he was presented with an honorary doctorate.
A former treasurer at Sherbrooke St Gilbert’s Church in Pollokshields, Glasgow, his other interests included travel, golf and music.
His funeral service was held yesterday in Glasgow.
Scottish Rugby extends its sincere condolences to all Bob Gemmill’s family and friends.
