By KATHRYN BERMINGHAM
PAKENHAM identity Robert Fox was remembered as a “guiding light” by those gathered to commemorate his life this week.
The long-serving member of the Pakenham RSL died at McGregor gardens on April 13 after a long and rich life.
Born in the Western Victorian town of Mortlake on March 14, 1923, Robert enlisted in Melbourne on July 30, 1942 at the age of 19. He served in the RAAF under service number 59764 before being discharged on April 30, 1945 holding the rank of leading aircraftsman. His posting at time of discharge was 10 Communications Unit.
After his time with the RAAF, Robert married Moira in Melbourne on October 26, 1957. They had three children – Wayne, Faye and Karen (dec.) and later had two grandchildren, Andrea and Henry. He occupied a role as a public servant and later took a job as a consultant with Nielson Funerals in Pakenham.
Many in the area will know Rob from his tireless devotion to the RSL over many years. Fellow member Don Buntine remembered this week the day he was approached by Rob and asked to be the Treasurer of the RSL.
“I was out in the garden one day, and Rob came and approached me and said ‘we need a treasurer, are you interested?’” Don recalled.
So began the start of a partnership of many years, Don holding much respect for the charity and generosity of Robert and Moira.
“Anyone who needed help, they would be there,” he said.
“If anyone in the community needed to get to a hospital or a medical appointment, they would do it and never said a word about it.
“If you lined all those people up there would be over 100.
“He was a born leader.”
Robert also had significant involvement with the Pakenham Uniting Church and was a passionate golfer, taking out the title of Victorian State Veteran’s Golf Champion.
He is survived by his wife, two children and two grandchildren and will be remembered for his many years of service to his country and his community.
