Popular Post womble53 Posted January 26, 2017 Popular Post Report Share Posted January 26, 2017 (edited) On Facebook today (Caroline Watson aka Midnight Lady), I have been reading with great sadness of the passing this morning of an old friend, Dennis Wallace, better know to many on these pages, and those of the Monarchs Chatzone as 'Merlin'. I first met Dennis through my travels with the Somerset Rebels, when he kindly provided board and lodgings to myself, and several other Rebels fans, on our trips for the Scottish tours. He was a wonderful host, and nothing was too much trouble for him, his breakfasts were legendary, and his home was our home. He would meet us at the airport, and whisk us away for trips around the area, and some wonderful Haggis lunches in various hostelries around Edinburgh. Dennis was great company, witty, knowledgeable, smart and with a love of speedway, and in particular the Monarchs, which was plain for all to see. We all enjoyed many conversations about Speedway, and many other subjects, sat around the TV with a beer in hand. Not only did he open his home to visiting fans, he also provided a home for many of the riders, who raced for the Monarchs over the years, Cameron Woodward, Aaron Summers, Kalle Katajisto, and Max Dilger spring immediately to mind as recipients of his hospitality. I recall one occasion, when the late Emil Kramer was looking for a hotel for the night, to catch an early flight home the following morning, and Dennis immediately offered a room at Chez Wallace, with the offer of a lift to the airport in the morning. Emil didn't know Dennis at the time, but over a beer or two in front of the box, they talked about speedway and life, and they became firm friends. Suffice to say that wasn't the last time Emil sampled the Wallace hospitality. There are many on here, who would have crossed verbal swords with Dennis, and been on the end of his sharp & quick wit, especially Tigers fans, and whether you agreed with his point of view or not, he was always interesting & entertaining in what he had to say. Sadly Dennis suffered a stroke a few years ago, which affected him greatly, and I believe of late that he had suffered more strokes, which eventually led to his sad passing this morning. I for one feel privileged to have known him, and will miss his kind hospitality, impromptu tours, and ready wit. My condolences go out to all his family & friends. RIP Dennis Edited January 26, 2017 by womble53 18 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
foamfence Posted January 26, 2017 Report Share Posted January 26, 2017 On Facebook today (Caroline Watson aka Midnight Lady), I have been reading with great sadness of the passing this morning of an old friend, Dennis Wallace, better know to many on these pages, and those of the Monarchs Chatzone as 'Merlin'. I first met Dennis through my travels with the Somerset Rebels, when he kindly provided board and lodgings to myself, and several other Rebels fans, on our trips for the Scottish tours. He was a wonderful host, and nothing was too much trouble for him, his breakfasts were legendary, and his home was our home. He would meet us at the airport, and whisk us away for trips around the area, and some wonderful Haggis lunches in various hostelries around Edinburgh. Dennis was great company, witty, knowledgeable, smart and with a love of speedway, and in particular the Monarchs, which was plain for all to see. We all enjoyed many conversations about Speedway, and many other subjects, sat around the TV with a beer in hand. Not only did he open his home to visiting fans, he also provided a home for many of the riders, who raced for the Monarchs over the years, Cameron Woodward, Aaron Summers, Kalle Katajisto, and Max Dilger spring immediately to mind as recipients of his hospitality. I recall one occasion, when the late Emil Kramer was looking for a hotel for the night, to catch an early flight home the following morning, and Dennis immediately offered a room at Chez Wallace, with the offer of a lift to the airport in the morning. Emil didn't know Dennis at the time, but over a beer or two in front of the box, they talked about speedway and life, and they became firm friends. Suffice to say that wasn't the last time Emil sampled the Wallace hospitality. There are many on here, who would have crossed verbal swords with Dennis, and been on the end of his sharp & quick wit, especially Tigers fans, and whether you agreed with his point of view or not, he was always interesting & entertaining in what he had to say. Sadly Dennis suffered a stroke a few years ago, and had been hospitalised since then, and I believe of late that he had suffered more strokes, which eventually led to his sad passing this morning. I for one feel privileged to have known him, and will miss his kind hospitality, impromptu tours, and ready wit. RIP Dennis Sounds like a great man and a great help to our sport, we could use more like him. RIP Dennis. 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Tsunami Posted January 26, 2017 Report Share Posted January 26, 2017 On Facebook today (Caroline Watson aka Midnight Lady), I have been reading with great sadness of the passing this morning of an old friend, Dennis Wallace, better know to many on these pages, and those of the Monarchs Chatzone as 'Merlin'. I first met Dennis through my travels with the Somerset Rebels, when he kindly provided board and lodgings to myself, and several other Rebels fans, on our trips for the Scottish tours. He was a wonderful host, and nothing was too much trouble for him, his breakfasts were legendary, and his home was our home. He would meet us at the airport, and whisk us away for trips around the area, and some wonderful Haggis lunches in various hostelries around Edinburgh. Dennis was great company, witty, knowledgeable, smart and with a love of speedway, and in particular the Monarchs, which was plain for all to see. We all enjoyed many conversations about Speedway, and many other subjects, sat around the TV with a beer in hand. Not only did he open his home to visiting fans, he also provided a home for many of the riders, who raced for the Monarchs over the years, Cameron Woodward, Aaron Summers, Kalle Katajisto, and Max Dilger spring immediately to mind as recipients of his hospitality. I recall one occasion, when the late Emil Kramer was looking for a hotel for the night, to catch an early flight home the following morning, and Dennis immediately offered a room at Chez Wallace, with the offer of a lift to the airport in the morning. Emil didn't know Dennis at the time, but over a beer or two in front of the box, they talked about speedway and life, and they became firm friends. Suffice to say that wasn't the last time Emil sampled the Wallace hospitality. There are many on here, who would have crossed verbal swords with Dennis, and been on the end of his sharp & quick wit, especially Tigers fans, and whether you agreed with his point of view or not, he was always interesting & entertaining in what he had to say. Sadly Dennis suffered a stroke a few years ago, which affected him greatly, and I believe of late that he had suffered more strokes, which eventually led to his sad passing this morning. I for one feel privileged to have known him, and will miss his kind hospitality, impromptu tours, and ready wit. My condolences go out to all his family & friends. RIP Dennis I well remember Merlin, and knew about his fantastic offers of accommodation and friendship to his riders. I was also hosting Newcastle foreign riders at the time, and we often commented on our experiences both on here and, when we met. He was an original, and one that the sport could hardly afford to lose. Sad that I didn't know that his absence on here was for the reasons stated. RIP Merlin (Dennis) 2 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Deano Posted January 26, 2017 Report Share Posted January 26, 2017 Feel so privileged to have known Dennis, I was first introduced by bluejam. I also feel very sad to read this, it seems such a long time since I last bumped into him at Armadale. Such a lovely, friendly and exceptionally pleasant person, he always had time to have a chat. RIP friend. 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
The White Knight Posted January 26, 2017 Report Share Posted January 26, 2017 Very, very sad to hear this. I never met 'Merlin' as I knew him. We corresponded a few times on this Forum. His replies to my messages were always kind and friendly and we never had a cross word. It is a while ago now since we were last in contact. Rest in Peace. + Dennis - you were what Speedway Supporting was all about. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
lucifer sam Posted January 27, 2017 Report Share Posted January 27, 2017 I met Dennis (Merlin), after being introduced by Paulco. He was so obviously speedway through-and-through; one of these chaps would do anything for his local club. And generous as well - I remember him going out of his way to drop Paulco and myself back at the station. RIP Dennis - a sad loss. All the best Rob 5 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
pugwash Posted January 27, 2017 Report Share Posted January 27, 2017 very sad news, sorry to hear it. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
robert72 Posted January 27, 2017 Report Share Posted January 27, 2017 Very Sad news, I just can't put a face to the name Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
StevePark Posted January 27, 2017 Report Share Posted January 27, 2017 Very Sad news, I just can't put a face to the name https://twitter.com/EdinMonarchs/status/824607078463533057 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
The White Knight Posted January 27, 2017 Report Share Posted January 27, 2017 https://twitter.com/EdinMonarchs/status/824607078463533057 As I said in my earlier Post - I had never met Dennis but had corresponded with him. Thank you Steve for Posting this - it is nice to put a face to the name. Again - many thanks. Ian. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
robert72 Posted January 27, 2017 Report Share Posted January 27, 2017 (edited) https://twitter.com/EdinMonarchs/status/824607078463533057Yes I now know Who Dennis was, it's been awhile since I last went to Edinburgh Speedway, they have an awesome bunch of fans who have been traveling around the tracks for years. RIP Dennis Edited January 27, 2017 by robert72 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
June01 Posted January 27, 2017 Report Share Posted January 27, 2017 I can well remember reading his posts and meeting reports, of which there were many, which stood out not only for that hypnotic avatar, but also his love of writing. A man who clearly loved his speedway, and a big character on the forums. Condolences to his friends and family. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
tyretrax Posted January 27, 2017 Report Share Posted January 27, 2017 You see people at speedway but don't always know their name. Then you see their photo and you do know them. R.I.P. Dennis. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Lioness Posted January 28, 2017 Report Share Posted January 28, 2017 Very sad to read this. one of a very few genuine good guys, even if you disagreed with him on things, always a gentleman and respectful of others. Did an incredible amount for his beloved Monarchs but also for other speedway people and riders never looking for recognition or anything and wombles opening post is a perfect tribute RIP Dennis 2 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
baba Posted January 28, 2017 Report Share Posted January 28, 2017 (edited) People like Dennis are the reason Speedway fans are the best in the world. God bless. Edited January 28, 2017 by baba 2 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
SCB Posted January 28, 2017 Report Share Posted January 28, 2017 While we only ever met a handful of times, Dennis was a friend who I loved to spend time chatting. It was often about speedway as you would expect but also just about life generally. After the first time I met him he invited me to stay at his and I just took it as someone being polite. After that every time we met he would tell me if for not taking up the invite. Without a shadow of a doubt he was one of the nicest, kindest and friendliest people I have ever met. It was a great honour to call Dennis a friend. He'll be missed by me and as I said we only met a handful of times so I can only begin to imagine how long the list of others who will also miss him must be. A truly great guy. RIP Dennis. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Bagpuss Posted January 28, 2017 Report Share Posted January 28, 2017 Met Dennis several times during Lynn's PL days and I always found him to be friendly, knowledgeable and great company. Very sad to hear of his passing. RIP. 2 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Arson fire Posted January 28, 2017 Report Share Posted January 28, 2017 On Facebook today (Caroline Watson aka Midnight Lady), I have been reading with great sadness of the passing this morning of an old friend, Dennis Wallace, better know to many on these pages, and those of the Monarchs Chatzone as 'Merlin'. I first met Dennis through my travels with the Somerset Rebels, when he kindly provided board and lodgings to myself, and several other Rebels fans, on our trips for the Scottish tours. He was a wonderful host, and nothing was too much trouble for him, his breakfasts were legendary, and his home was our home. He would meet us at the airport, and whisk us away for trips around the area, and some wonderful Haggis lunches in various hostelries around Edinburgh. Dennis was great company, witty, knowledgeable, smart and with a love of speedway, and in particular the Monarchs, which was plain for all to see. We all enjoyed many conversations about Speedway, and many other subjects, sat around the TV with a beer in hand. Not only did he open his home to visiting fans, he also provided a home for many of the riders, who raced for the Monarchs over the years, Cameron Woodward, Aaron Summers, Kalle Katajisto, and Max Dilger spring immediately to mind as recipients of his hospitality. I recall one occasion, when the late Emil Kramer was looking for a hotel for the night, to catch an early flight home the following morning, and Dennis immediately offered a room at Chez Wallace, with the offer of a lift to the airport in the morning. Emil didn't know Dennis at the time, but over a beer or two in front of the box, they talked about speedway and life, and they became firm friends. Suffice to say that wasn't the last time Emil sampled the Wallace hospitality. There are many on here, who would have crossed verbal swords with Dennis, and been on the end of his sharp & quick wit, especially Tigers fans, and whether you agreed with his point of view or not, he was always interesting & entertaining in what he had to say. Sadly Dennis suffered a stroke a few years ago, which affected him greatly, and I believe of late that he had suffered more strokes, which eventually led to his sad passing this morning. I for one feel privileged to have known him, and will miss his kind hospitality, impromptu tours, and ready wit. My condolences go out to all his family & friends. RIP Dennis lovely words Womble53 RIP Merlin. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
bluejam Posted January 28, 2017 Report Share Posted January 28, 2017 (edited) On Facebook today (Caroline Watson aka Midnight Lady), I have been reading with great sadness of the passing this morning of an old friend, Dennis Wallace, better know to many on these pages, and those of the Monarchs Chatzone as 'Merlin'. I first met Dennis through my travels with the Somerset Rebels, when he kindly provided board and lodgings to myself, and several other Rebels fans, on our trips for the Scottish tours. He was a wonderful host, and nothing was too much trouble for him, his breakfasts were legendary, and his home was our home. He would meet us at the airport, and whisk us away for trips around the area, and some wonderful Haggis lunches in various hostelries around Edinburgh. Dennis was great company, witty, knowledgeable, smart and with a love of speedway, and in particular the Monarchs, which was plain for all to see. We all enjoyed many conversations about Speedway, and many other subjects, sat around the TV with a beer in hand. Not only did he open his home to visiting fans, he also provided a home for many of the riders, who raced for the Monarchs over the years, Cameron Woodward, Aaron Summers, Kalle Katajisto, and Max Dilger spring immediately to mind as recipients of his hospitality. I recall one occasion, when the late Emil Kramer was looking for a hotel for the night, to catch an early flight home the following morning, and Dennis immediately offered a room at Chez Wallace, with the offer of a lift to the airport in the morning. Emil didn't know Dennis at the time, but over a beer or two in front of the box, they talked about speedway and life, and they became firm friends. Suffice to say that wasn't the last time Emil sampled the Wallace hospitality. There are many on here, who would have crossed verbal swords with Dennis, and been on the end of his sharp & quick wit, especially Tigers fans, and whether you agreed with his point of view or not, he was always interesting & entertaining in what he had to say. Sadly Dennis suffered a stroke a few years ago, which affected him greatly, and I believe of late that he had suffered more strokes, which eventually led to his sad passing this morning. I for one feel privileged to have known him, and will miss his kind hospitality, impromptu tours, and ready wit. My condolences go out to all his family & friends. RIP Dennis A fitting tribute womble 53. Like yourself I became really good friends with Mr Wallace on my trips to Armadale when the Brummies rode there on the Northern Tour.A very kind,warm hearted fellow,who made you feel so welcome in his home City of Edinburgh.Despite having Monarch riders residing with him,there was always the offer of accomodation,a trip to the tourist sights in Scotlands Capital City,a bowl of home-made soup,and a visit to the prize winning haggis suppliers.It was the highlight of the speedway season for myself!! I'd also make the trip up to visit him outside of the speedway season when the 6 Nations Rugby was held in Edinburgh.Remember well introducing my partner to him,when we took him for a meal locally,and he insisted on paying the bill!! I'll never forget that night at Perry Barr when Mr Wallace and the gang wore dreadlock wigs for the PL Trophy Final in 2008.One of the most hilarious sights I've ever seen at a speedway track!! I knew that the last few years had been very difficult for himself,his family and his close speedway friends(namely Midnight Lady,Davy H and Dekker).I'll never forget the call I had from Mr Wallaces' relative telling myself what had happened to him and things would never be the same again! God Bless you Dennis,you really were a gentleman,and will be sadly missed by all who knew you.Farewell my friend. Edited January 28, 2017 by bluejam 3 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
falkirkbandit Posted February 2, 2017 Report Share Posted February 2, 2017 I only found out the sad news after work today, after going for the weekly Thursday shopping including Speedway Star then sitting down at home to read it. A lovely guy. It was great to see him at Armadale again in the last season or two when i was up for a Bandits meeting. R.I.P Dennis Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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