When asked what his life was like outside financial services he would simply say “Family, music, my moothie , Ibiza, red wine and Oliphants pies” . (The local Linlithgow baker!)
His longstanding friend and fellow Linlithgow financial services stalwart John Allison said today: “That was so typical of the man. So successful and innovative in business but still so very humble. He was kind, loyal, generous, honest and a thoroughly decent man. A great friend to have. I will miss him dreadfully.”
“Alan always remained totally true to his working-class upbringing. But, unknown to most, he was also a significant financial benefactor and quietly, behind the scenes, he gave great financial support to many local institutions and events.”
“The financial services industry is traditionally very light on true unique characters and legends.
“Alan Steel may sadly prove to be the last of them.”
He leaves behind his wife Fran, son Malcolm and daughter Catherine together with son in law Dylan and daughter in law Helen and his 5 grandchildren, Hannah, Cameron, Jackson, Frankton and Daisy.
Steve Forbes, who has been managing director of ASAM since 2005, commenting on Alan’s sad passing today said:
“I, and many of my colleagues, called on Alan in our previous industry roles and we were always so impressed with his vast technical knowledge, the camaraderie of his staff and, of course his humour that when the offer came to join him, we all jumped at the chance.
“Together we wanted to help him try to make his dream of retirement financial independence for Alan Steel Asset Management clients come true. And many of us have now been doing just that for over 25 years. He was a one off and a genius, of that there is certainly no doubt, but he was also a great visionary. Several years ago, he deliberately stood back from the day to day running of the business and assumed the role of company chairman. He couldn’t keep away from the office, of course, and each visit was always a breath of fresh air.
“His sudden passing has certainly hit us all very hard, but we take great comfort from the fact that his corporate vision and DNA are forever installed in all of us here in Linlithgow.
“Upholding these ideals now and well into the future will be our lasting tribute to a truly unique individual.“
