Roman Kulkewycz
A local Garfield plumbing business that began in 1924 has remained in the same family since its inception 100 years ago.
Frank Marsh started FJB Marsh and Son in 1924.
His son John apprenticed to his father from 1954, and remained in the business until his retirement.
John, who passed away in March last year, was an iconic local figure, known for his generosity and willingness to help others for the betterment of the community.
John made a huge contribution towards the establishment and maintenance of Hillview Bunyip Aged Care, where a wing is named in his honour.
He and wife Nellie ran the business until retirement in 1999, with his son Anthony and wife Donna managing it currently.
Son Matthew also works for the business, and into the fourth generation, their grandson (Anthony’s son) Aaron has just completed his plumbing apprenticeship.
It was a project of John’s to document the history of his life and the business as it was approaching 100 years.
He accelerated his efforts to get it all done when he found he was terminally ill.
Anthony, with a moist glisten in his eyes, remembers his dad as being stubborn, still in charge even after retiring; a man that could turn his hand and make or fix anything, caring and compassionate.
Nellie remembers her husband as very strong minded, very clever and a wonderful husband.
