As is the ‘tradition’, Sydney-area based classmates and a couple of ring-ins (the Crans and the Gibsons) met at The Orient Hotel at The Rocks last Friday. Food and company were excellent – and so much of a good time was had that everyone forgot to get a group photograph!
But for the record, the following were there: Bob Blue, Trish & David Cran, John & Roseanne Croxson, Steve & Guiliana Despoges, Chris & Sue Gibson, Gerry & Annette Jones, Peter & Annaliese Lawrence, Peter & Sue Martyn, Peter and Gayle McCann, Duncan & Carmel McInnes, Don Muirhead, John and Vivienne Price and Paddy Ryan.
And a reminder: all class members are always welcome.
I received a long email from Kev Loughrey today which contained some useful thoughts on bowel cancer, prostate cancer and heart conditions. It was too long to replicate here, so I’ve copied into the pdf document hereunder:
14 April was a cold and windy day, but the sun shone through – somehow appropriate for Richard’s funeral. Although conducted in one of the chapels at the funeral home, it was not a religious service.
Richard very obviously had a lot to do in the preparation of his own funeral: there were items in the telling of his life journey that could only have come from him. It was a special touch that Peter Jenke and Rod Allan were specifically mentioned for the support and affirmation that they’d given him over several years.
Both his sisters – twin Trish and younger sister Jacqui – spoke of a brother they loved. Their telling was honest and matter-of-fact: the acknowledged the feelings he’d had throughout his life of being socially awkward and perhaps, in his mind, of not measuring up. But the main point that they made was that he was a better person than he thought he was, and hopefully that message got through to him towards the end of his life. It was certainly one that was emphasised by his classmates who made contact in recent years.
Richard had recorded a final message, apparently just before he died, knowing that his life was about to end. There was no self-pity, but a brave facing of the inevitable. He seemed to be content, with a powerful message that he had come to understand and appreciate that interpersonal relationships and friendships were so critical in life. There was some typical Richard wry humour: we were all encouraged to look after one another, and more importantly, to make sure we had a last drink and feed on him at the tea rooms after the service! We did.
The Class of 1972 was represented by Peter Jenke, Rod Allan, Graham Smith, Tony McKenna and David Cran, along with Kerry Jenke who had been part of the support team, which included Rod’s partner Jenny who was unable to attend. Peter had loaned his old Herbie Johnson cap to be placed on the coffin to represent his Army service of 23 years (hoping that it wasn’t destined for the flames!); likewise there were some medals worn out of respect for Richard’s military service over more than two decades.
Graham Smith, Kerry Jenke, Peter Jenke, Tony McKenna, David Cran, Rod Allan
Our classmate Richard John Carter passed away peacefully with family by his side on Good Friday 2nd April, 2021.
Family and Friends are invited to celebrate Richard’s Life at the Cumulus Chapel, Bunurong Memorial Park, 790 Frankston-Dandenong Road, Dandenong South on WEDNESDAY 14th April, 2021 commencing at 11.30A.M. A private cremation will follow.
In lieu of flowers a donation to the Cancer Council Victoria would be appreciated.
At this stage details are limited, but what is known is that Richard’s funeral is at 1130hrs on Wednesday the 14th April at Bunurong Memorial Park, 790 Frankston – Dandenong Rd, Dandenong South VIC 3175. More to follow if/as info becomes available.
Details are sparse, but the information I have so far is that Richard had a fall at home in which he suffered several fractures. He was admitted to hospital where he died; I understand with his sisters Trish (his twin) and Jackie present, as well as Trish’s husband and children.
There is likely to be a private cremation, with possibly a memorial service later, but that is very much yet to be confirmed.
As previously mentioned, Richard had been supported by Peter and Rod, and that involved regular meetings for meals amongst other activities. The most recent was just last week, and Bill Houston, Graham Smith and Tony McKenna joined in as well.
Very sad news that Richard Carter died yesterday, after a very long and painful cancer.
There is no news yet of any farewell event.
Special thanks to classmates who had made contact with Richard to support and reassure him. This was greatly appreciated by him. A very special mention of Peter Jenke and Rod Allen, who closely supported, reassured and reaffirmed him, making sure that he knew that he was valued and held dear as a member of our Class of 1972. This meant so much to him as he faced increasing and constant pain.
And as a footnote, he always hated his nickname, so lets consign that to the rubbish!
“Hi, it’s Nicole Park. Here are the details for Dad’s funeral: Thursday, 4th February at 12:30pm South Chapel Forest Lawn Memorial Park Camden Valley Way, Leppington
Due to the current COVID-19 restrictions, only 36 people are allowed to be seated inside for the service while up to 300 people are allowed to stand outside. There are two large television screens outside with sound to observe the service.
For those who are unable to attend, there is the option to watch Dad’s funeral via video streaming. If you would like the link for this, please send an email to nicole.park9@det.nsw.edu.au before Thursday.
Also due to the current restrictions, we have been unable to hold an organised function for the wake. Following Dad’s funeral, Mum, Matt, Dan and I will be going to Gledswood Hills Country Club (91 The Hermitage Way, Gledswood Hills) and you are welcome to join us to have lunch and a few drinks to celebrate Dad’s life and remember all of the good times we shared with him.
If anyone would like to speak at Dad’s funeral or provide a reflection for the service, please let me know.”
