Ian Aird

[SBMannion]

It is with the greatest sadness that Ian Aird passed away today, Saturday 12th July 2025.
Like many wonderful chess players, Ian was a real gem.
Exactly 4 weeks ago I was with Ian for the Teplice International (Czech Republic) when he said later after lunch that he was not feeling well.
Ian returned home the next day and was admitted to Hospital the following day after blood tests.
Ian unfortunately had liver cancer that had spread.
He mainly played abroad in various senior tournaments, and had recently received his state pension.
He played for Scotland Seniors in many team tournaments, which he funded himself.
He helped Dalmuir Chess Club continue to run after the sad loss of Jim McCartin, who is also a great loss to the chess circuit.
Ian was such a kind individual and never caused a fuss about anything.
He had hoped to next play in the European and World Senior tournaments, but unfortunately it was not meant to be.

[Ian Marks]

Another incredibly sad loss, hard to take in following the loss of Alastair Dawson.
I had no idea Ian was ill. He was in fine form in Prague, and on the occasions I saw him since.
A stalwart of seniors chess and another lovely guy taken from us far too soon.
Rest easy, old friend.

[Alastair White]

Another sad loss, coming as it did soon after losing Alastair Dawson. I have nothing but good memories of Ian who was a real chess fanatic, often travelling directly from one international chess tournament to another. I saw him play some fine games when our paths crossed, which was latterly quite often on the international Senior scene. He was always willing to do whatever he could for his chess colleagues. He will be a sad loss.

[William Hulme]

So shocked to hear this. Ian was such a genuine guy and we had many conversations and laughs at the last 3 world seniors team champs. I remember playing Ian at ICCF back in the early 90’s, but it wasn’t until more recently we got to know each other better.
Ian had many strong results just last season (one of his best) and was finding solid form - ready for next years’ world seniors team chaps!
Finding it difficult to take in that 2 of my team mates from Krakow last year have now passed ?.
If someone could please post funeral details when they are known, I’d like to pay my respects to another friend taken too soon.

[SBMannion]

I would like to thank Ian, Alastair and William for their kind messages about Ian.
I would also like to thank all the many chess people who have visited Ian's page.
I have spoken to Ian's sister, Susan, who despite her massive loss is taking great comfort in all the lovely messages that have been posted about Ian. Susan is a non-chess player but any stories shared is a huge help and a nice discovery.
As soon as the funeral arrangements have been arranged, I will post on this site.