Dundee Ice Cream Legend Charles Vettraino Dies at 97

The founder of 111 Ices was renowned for his tireless work ethic and beloved by the local community.

Apr. 8, 2026 at 7:04am

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An impressionistic, out-of-focus photograph depicting the faint outline of an ice cream van on a Dundee street, conveying the nostalgic and atmospheric essence of this local business.The beloved ice cream vans of Charles Vettraino's 111 Ices business were a cherished part of Dundee's community for generations.Dundee Today

Charles Vettraino, the founder of the iconic 111 Ices ice cream van business in Dundee, has passed away at the age of 97. Vettraino was a beloved figure in the city's Italian-Scottish community, known for his tireless work ethic and dedication to bringing joy to customers through his delicious frozen treats.

Why it matters

Vettraino's ice cream vans were a beloved part of the Dundee community for decades, with his business becoming a cherished tradition passed down through generations. His passing marks the end of an era for the city's Italian-Scottish heritage and the vibrant small business culture that defined Dundee's neighborhoods.

The details

Vettraino founded 111 Ices in the 1950s, growing the business into a Dundee institution over the course of his 97 years. His ice cream vans, with their iconic branding and jingle, became a fixture in the city, bringing smiles to countless customers young and old. Vettraino was known for his unwavering commitment to his work, often operating the vans himself well into his 90s.

  • Vettraino founded 111 Ices in the 1950s.
  • Vettraino passed away on April 5, 2026 at the age of 97.

The players

Charles Vettraino

The founder of the iconic 111 Ices ice cream van business in Dundee, who passed away at the age of 97.

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What they’re saying

“Charles was a true legend in Dundee, and his ice cream vans brought so much joy to our community for generations. He will be deeply missed.”

— Fiona MacDonald, Dundee resident

The takeaway

Vettraino's life and work embodied the spirit of Dundee's vibrant small business culture and the enduring appeal of classic ice cream treats. His legacy will continue to live on through the fond memories of countless customers whose summers were made sweeter by his tireless efforts.