JOHNSTON, Robert Douglas 'Douglas'

So sad to hear this Alison- Douglas was a true gentleman. I have many memories of growing up in Eureka and Zalmonah and the family that lived there will always be a cherished one. Rest in Peace dear friend.

Douglas, it was all your fault years ago when you had the family reunion and you strongly suggested to me to do our family tree…how many years later and I am still doing it as well as helping other people with theirs. Not long ago I told you that you had turned me into a fox terrier where I don’t give up until I can find information – so now who will I discuss this with. I will miss your humour and advice. I told you years ago that I had the original Bencluna photo where the Captain is missing and you said I didn’t have it BUT my grandma is in the sulky with her father so I do and I never got to show you. If I knew what the captain looked like I would take the photo and put him in where the corner is torn off and then I think you and Uncle Johnny would be happy that they would all be together again. Thank you for pushing me into doing our tree. It is wonderful to find family.

We were very saddened to hear of Douglas’s passing. We greatly enjoyed his company on our occasional visits to Zalmonah. We will miss him. Our best wishes to all the family. Richard & Mary

Dear Alison and all the family,
I am sorry we can’t be with you to celebrate Douglas’s life today. Wayne always enjoyed a yarn with Douglas ..most recently at Heather Noble’s funeral.
Douglas has been a constant in our fondest memories of Eureka. He was a very good friend to our family and I have never forgotten flying home to ‘Tilliochie’ from PNG the day after Dad passed away and finding Douglas and your father in the driveway patiently waiting for Mum who had stayed over night with Coleen. Later he visited Mum regularly in Alstonville and Ballina.
My earliest memories was seeing the back of his head in Church and then later behind the organ and in Sunday School.
Douglas played the organ at our wedding 50 years ago. It was a challenge for him to learn the theme from Dr Zivargo, ‘Somewhere my Love’ as I had decided it was to be ‘my wedding March’. I had to walk very slowly for him to fit in the tune!
You will be in out thoughts today.
Kind regards,
Elizabeth

Dearest Dean, Alison and Family,

So sorry to hear of the loss of Douglas. I will remember many an organ hymn, at the correct speed, even if the congregation wouldn’t keep up. I will remember the beautiful wedding of my sister at his beautiful home, what a gracious host. I will cherish his Sunday School lessons and calming presence. I will pass onto my children the heritage that he left… the heritage of the story of Eureka and its people. He will be missed. Sorry for your loss.
Sincerely,
Rebecca Gibson (nee Murphy) and Family

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