Deceased April 11, 2020
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In Memory
Alistair Catto died on April 11, 2020, from complications of ALS.
In September 1969, Alistair, my new roommate, and I did not always know what the other was saying. Born in Forfar, Scotland, and a graduate of Fettes College, Edinburgh, Alistair had a strong Scottish accent. Far from isolating him, this contributed to his popularity. He attracted a crowd, especially fellow squash players and DKEs, many of whom became lifelong friends.
Irrepressibly cheerful, Alistair discussed business and quoted poetry. He spoke at length about political correctness (didn’t like), George Orwell (liked) and Queen Elizabeth II (revered). There was no meanness in his speech, but there was much humor.
Amherst softened Alistair’s accent and changed his life when he met his future wife, Bonnie MacNeill Catto (MHC ’73). After he graduated in 1974, they lived in Philadelphia and then South Hadley. Alistair served in Amherst’s Development Office, worked in aerial photography and golf retail and managed investments.
Western Massachusetts suited Bonnie and Alistair, who enjoyed watching birds and other animals from their home next to a golf course. Having a course so close was convenient, as Alistair was a devoted player who won acclaim for his skill. With golfing friends, he traveled to many courses, and he kept fit, climbing Mount Holyoke 100 times last year, until illness overtook him.
Sickness stole Alistair’s breath and voice. During our last visit, we did not talk much. We were, he told me, like the old men he remembered from his youth in Scotland. It was enough for them to sit quietly together because they had said everything that had to be said.
Richard D. Holmes ’73