Memorial service for Inverness entertainer Tombo Tolmie who died earlier this year and was well known for his excellent portrayal of Al Jolson
Friends and relatives of a former Inverness entertainer who died earlier this year are planning to hold a memorial service in tribute to him.
Tombo Tolmie, from Merkinch, passed away in the Isobel Fraser Care Home, in Inverness, on April 19 at the age of 88.
Family friend Billy Corbett, from Kessock Road, said there was not the opportunity to have a proper funeral at the time as Mr Tolmie’s family – his son Derek, his daughter-in-law Patty and their daughter – now live in Florida.
He said: “His family were all keen to hold a proper celebration of this great and popular Merkinch and Inverness legendary figure and have arranged to have a memorial service to look back on his incredible and colourful life.”
Mr Tolmie was well-known for impersonating the singer Al Jolson and Mr Corbett said that at the service there would be a photo display of Tombo in the background.
He added: “Tombo Tolmie always excellently portrayed Al Jolson, whether that was in the Clach Social Club, British Legion Club or the old former Merkinch pubs the Lochiel and Argyle Bar.
“He was also a star in the still talked about Billy Nelson production of the Cinderbella Concert, held in the Clach Club back in 1987.”
Mr Corbett described Mr Tolmie as a loving father of Derek, and was a dear grandfather, father-in-law and good friend to many.
He said: “He was a family friend of mine for many years, as was his late wife Heather, who passed away last year, and son Derek, who has asked me to publicise the forthcoming memorial service event.”
Relative Ian Clayton, who lives in Inverness, said: “Like other family members I’ve fond memories of Tombo and we are very proud of the fact of just how popular and loved he was locally with so many people.
“We hope many can come along on the day to look back on his interesting and colourful life. He will be missed by so many people, and of course, his loving family.”
It will be on Thursday, August 4, at 11.30am at the British Legion Club in Inverness.
