The owner of Scotland’s largest wild fishing company, David Warrander Pullar has died, aged 80.
Known to most people as Dave, he was born in Cupar on June 12, 1939.
He studied at Harris Academy and went on to to compete a joinery apprenticeship before working on the construction of the M1 motorway and other major engineering projects across the country.
He later joined his father George’s electrical company in Carnoustie, where he caught the bug for business, as he moved on to focus on the fishing industry.
Aboard a self-built wooden clinker boat, he began fishing for lobster out of Westhaven.
He took over the lease of a salmon fishing station in Carnoustie before relocating to Thurso, where he would raise his children David, Pauline, George and Robert with his wife Eleanor.
In 1983, the Pullar family relocated to the village of Usan, near Montrose, where Dave acquired the salmon fishing station.
Despite being told the company would struggle, he set up a thriving wild salmon business, Usan Salmon Fisheries Ltd.
Dave had a keen passion for fishing and was an executive member of the Salmon Net Fishing Association.
Alongside his sons, he went on to build Scotland’s largest wild salmon fishing company.
As well as fishing, Dave had an enthusiasm for vintage vehicles. He was a long-time member of the Scottish Austin Seven Club and would attend rallies annually with his Austin Seven Opal, which once belonged to Sir David Steel.
After the death of his wife Eleanor, Dave developed a love of the accordion and was inspired by the life and music of Sir Jimmy Shand.
An avid collector, he began to gather the musical instruments which soon became a major force in his life and home.
He amassed Scotland’s largest collection, with more than 1000 accordions in his home, including rare and unusual Jimmy Shand memorabilia.
His collection earned him an honorary life membership of the Windygates Accordion Club as a thanks for his years of support and contributions.
Dave suffered a number of health related issues over the years but remained positive and loved his life and home at Usan.
He died peacefully at his home on April 27 and is survived by his four children, grandchildren and great grandchildren and his companion Ollie the golden retriever.
His family have said: “Dave was a proud, generous and caring man and will be remembered for his hospitality and as a Samaritan and philanthropist.”
