William Ross Lane

William Ross Lane (c1854-1937) of Lane and Girvan

1937 January 23rd. Died. Of Hazlewood, Bridge of Allan. Of Lane and Girvan, ironfounders. Husband of Jean bell Johnstone.

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1937 Obituary

THE LATE WILLIAM ROSS LANE. Passing of Prominent Bonnybridge Ironfounder. The Stirlingshire light castings industry has lost one of its most progressive representatives in the passing of Mr William Ross Lane, ironfounder, who died at his residence, Hazelwood, Bridge of Allan, on Friday of last week.

The deceased gentleman, who had reached the ripe age of 83 years, had a long and successful career as founder and senior partner of the firm of Messrs Lane & Girvan, Ltd., Caledonia Stove Works, Bonnybridge. In co-partnership with Mr Girvan, the firm was founded in 1904, and although the latter’s place was taken over by Mr James Ferguson few years later, the name of the firm remained unchanged.

In 1919 the concern was converted into a private limited liability company, with the late Mr Lane as chairman of directors, and Mr Ferguson as managing director. From that time the firm developed steadily, expanding its business and improving the quality of its products. In this latter, phase Mr Lane was a power in himself, and many patents and improvements on the company’s stoves and ranges were the result of his expert knowledge of the trade.

Although in later years his physical fitness curtailed his activities, he nevertheless visited the works to meet his co-directors twice weekly until the end of 1936, his mental alertness continuing prove invaluable in guiding the progress of the firm. In a social capacity Lane was well and widely known, and almost every Bonnybridge institution could count upon his friendly interest and financial support. In fact, quite recently he made a most generous donation to the Parish Church organ fund, although unconnected with that church. Bowling, angling, and football were his favourite sports. Indeed, was one of the original Grasshoppers of Bonnybridge, and his passing leaves only one member of the team now living.

Since taking up residence in Bridge of Allan, he had served term as president of the Airthrey Spa Bowling Club there.

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