Northborough – Ian Alexander Dalgliesh, 34, a lifelong resident of Northborough and a talented artist, died on March 7, 2021 due to injuries sustained after being struck by a hit and run driver.
Ian is survived by his parents, Ronald J. and Kathleen (Gibson) Dalgliesh of Northborough; his brother, Robin J. Dalgliesh of Northborough; his sister, Samantha G. Dalgliesh Bates of Boston; and his beloved nieces and nephews, Ashton, Juliet, Crew, Hunter and Violet Bates. He also leaves his aunts and uncles and numerous cousins in the Gibson and Dalgliesh families. Ian was preceded in death by his grandparents, Donald and Grace Gibson of Michigan and Thomas and Christine Dalgliesh of Scotland.
He attended Proctor Elementary and Melican Middle Schools prior to graduating Algonquin Regional High School in 2005. A true friend, Ian maintained many close relationships from his early days at Proctor into adulthood.
His ability to channel his inner child allowed Ian to enjoy every moment with wonder and amazement. Creative and imaginative, Ian celebrated holidays and special occasions with hand-made decorations, costumes and gifts. He enjoyed writing and illustrating stories for family and friends, especially his nieces and nephews. Fascinated by magic, Ian liked to perform amazing card tricks. His best magic, however, was the way he could coax a smile from others, no matter how bad they were feeling—the way he made others feel happy and loved.
Because of his love of Christmas, Ian years ago set up a worldwide website called Gift or Take where anyone could sign up to send random gifts and receive gifts, year-round, for no other reason than to bring joy to someone’s day. The heartwarming stories of those who took part in this selfless exchange brought great joy to Ian.
Ian loved roller coasters and his favorite family vacations were to Cedar Point in Sandusky, Ohio. It eventually led to two magical summers working at the park and taking delight in the joy of those young and old riding his special coaster.
Ian felt a special affinity for nature. He looked forward to exploring his father’s homeland of Scotland, hiking and kayaking in Michigan with his Uncle Doug, and trips to the Cape with his lifelong friends. He also treasured the solitude and tranquility that camping and fishing brought him.
Due to current Covid 19 pandemic restrictions, there are no public services planned for Ian.
To honor his memory, please be kind to others and, as Ian would, make it a point to share a friendly smile with someone. Feel free to make a memorial donation to the charity of your choice in his name.
Hays Funeral Home, 56 Main St., Northborough, is honored to assist the Dalgliesh family during this time. Please visit www.HaysFuneralHome.com to leave a condolence or to share a story.
