Melville Housing Association is sad to announce that one of its longest serving board members Bill McAleece passed away on Wednesday 29 June 2016.

Bill, who lived in Danderhall, was part of the original steering group responsible for managing the stock transfer that created Melville more than 21 years ago. Bill then served continuously as an enthusiastic and active member of the management committee and board.

Fiercely proud of his involvement with Melville, Bill was well known in the housing sector through the many conferences and other events he attended on Melville’s behalf.

Before retiring in 2009, Bill worked for over 18 years as a receiving agent with the Balmoral Hotel in Edinburgh.

Prior to that he served in the RAF and also in the Merchant Navy. One of his proudest career moments came when he accompanied Prince Charles on a visit to Scotland.

Among the many striking things about Bill was his selfless concern for others, perhaps best demonstrated by his dedication to giving blood. In June of this year he was recognised by Edinburgh’s Lord Provost at a special ceremony marking his 250th blood donation, a phenomenal achievement and a fitting legacy.

Bill always looked out for the interests of people in his local community and, as well as serving on Melville’s Board, was also a long-standing member of Danderhall Community Council.

A loving and devoted family man, Bill is survived by wife Jean, daughter Davina and son Steven.

Following a private family funeral, a memorial service for Bill was held in Newton Church Danderhall, where he has been an Elder for over 20 years, on Sunday 10 July.