An East Lothian legend and stalwart football coach has died peacefully in hospital aged 75 after a long battle with dementia.
The devastated family of George Dunn Hanratty said that after tragically losing his stepson Mark in lockdown his health began to sadly deteriorate.
The dad-of-four spent his life as a keen sportsman - getting scouted for Celtic FC and Newcastle United back in the day - but after losing his dad decided to stay closer to home and spent decades coaching at Preston Atheltic Football Club. He was immensely proud of his Prestonpans heritage till the end.
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One of his final wishes was to have the funeral corsage travel through the bottom main road of the town so he could pass through the area he loved so much one last time.
Daughter-in-law Stacey told Edinburgh Live: "He was a gentle giant, he came across as a tough man but inside he was a big softie. Always had a good sense of humour telling jokes and having a carry-on. He was very loyal too and would do anything for his family and friends."
The grandad led a fulfilled life and was well-known in the community. She explained: "George was a keen sportsman, his passion was football and golf. He played centre half for Tranent Juniors and was centre half and captain with Preston Athletics in the 70s.
"Newcastle and Celtic were watching him - but he didn’t mention this often as he is a TOP Rangers fan. He had a trial with Workington and was also offered a chance to move and play for an Australian team.
"His father George had been a prisoner of war during his childhood. When he was discharged and returned home, he died from a heart attack.
"After losing his dad he turned down the opportunity to go to Australia, he was too much of a home bird. He later went on to coach for Preston Athletics and was an apprentice joiner he worked at Adam McNeil of Tranent."
She continued: "He had twin daughters Lynn and Dawn with his first wife Elizabeth. He then married his wife Margaret in 1979 and they set up a home in Aberlady along with his stepson Mark, and they welcomed son Ross in 1981.
"George worked as a joiner for East Lothian Council and kept up his passion for golf becoming a member at The Royal Musselburgh & then Kilspindie Golf Club.
"When the golf open would come he would marshal at the events. He came up in a few golfing competitions at the Royal Musselburgh.
"We would often pass houses out on family trips and he would point out all the council properties that he had worked on!"
Stacey also told of a devoted family man. She added: "George had six wonderful grandchildren James, Betty, Mackenzie, Sasha, Sienna and Georgia. Sasha had the same passion for football and is currently being watched by Rangers.
"After losing his stepson Mark during lockdown his battle with dementia declined. He passed away peacefully at the Royal on Thursday morning.
"His last request being a Panner at heart was to take the bottom road through Prestonpans, his funeral will be held on Monday, May 15 at Seafield 1pm for those who would like to join us in paying our respects."
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The team also paid their respects and wrote: "I am sad to say that a former player and friend George Hanratty died this week. George played for Preston back in the 70s. All our thoughts are with the family."
John Brannan said: "RIP George."
While George Hanratty added: "Rest easy George."
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