Greencastle golfer, 93, dies in collision 30.05.07

Tributes have been paid to one of Inishowen's "true characters" following his tragic death in a road accident. Ninety-three year old Bob Christie, Drumaweir, Greencastle, died on Monday afternoon after his car was in collision with a lorry at 3.30pm at Drumkeen on the Letterkenny to Ballybofey road. It's understood Mr. Christie was on his way to Co. Roscommon at the time of the incident to indulge his passion for angling. The lorry driver sustained minor injuries and was taken to Letterkenny General Hospital for treatment.

A retired Bank of Ireland official who had worked in the Moville branch, Mr. Christie was a well known figure with his distinctive handlebar moustache, cravat and plus fours when he played golf. He was a long serving member of Greencastle Golf Club and served for many years on the club's Council. Greencastle Golf Club manager, Billy McCaul paid tribute to the nonogenarian. "Bob was one of the true characters. He always insisted on carrying his own golf bag around the course and refused to use a trolley or a buggy. He played off 26 but his handicap was much, much lower in his day."
Dan Gillespie, a personal friend of the deceased, also described him as a "great character". "Bob went to Co. Roscommon every year to catch the May fly-fishing. He was a lovely golfer with a great swing and when he was younger he played off 6." Mr. Christie is survived by his wife Elizabeth and only son, who was also involved in a road accident with his wife last year. He is understood to be recovering well although his wife sustained more permanent injuries. Gardai in Ballybofey are investigating Monday's accident. Funeral arrangements are still being finalised.
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