- OBITUARY
MR. ROBERT WARDROP
As briefly reported in last issue, the death occurred at his work, of Mr. R. (Bobbie) Wardrop, proprietor-editor of the Berrigan Advocate. About 12 months ago, Mr Wardrop suffered a slight stroke, from which he appeared to have fully recovered, but against the advice of his doctor, had continued to work on in his usual efficient manner. On Tuesday afternoon, whilst going about his duties in the office, he collapsed, failed to respond to medical treatment, and died soon after. "Bobbie" as he was affectionately called by all who knew him, had been associated with the 'Advocate' all his working life. He went to Berrigan with his parents when a lad of 12 years, and- on leaving school he was apprenticed at the "Advocate." After completing his apprenticeship he left Berrigan for about 18 months, and returned to buy the business, and had conducted it ever since — a period of over 50 years. As a young man he was a very keen and all round sportsman, being a prominent member of the football team, well known as a slow bowler in cricket, and also turned in many good cards in golf. In later years he turned to bowls, taking the honors as Club champion on one occasion. He was an active member of Berrigan racing clubs up to the time of his death, acting as official timekeeper at all Berrigan meetings. In fact, to every sporting sphere in Berrigan, Bob Wardrop gave his wholehearted support. Possibly one Berrigan society which will miss his presence more than any other, will be the A. and H. Society, of which he was secretary for at least the 40 years. It was in. this position that he became so widely known, as he came in contact with people from all parts of the Riverina and Northern Victoria. In the service of the Society he never spared himself, and nothing was too much trouble in the interests of those who exhibited. One place where he was highly respected was at the Council Press Table. He reported the first meeting of the Berrigan Council in 1906, and attended the Jubilee dinner last 'December, and over the long period was seldom absent from his seat. The late Mr. Wardrop was a man of the highest integrity. His word was his bond, and his placid and kindly nature endeared him to a wide circle of friends. It can be safely said that he had not an enemy in the world. He was one of nature's gentlemen, and held in great esteem by all sections of the community. In fields other than sport he also played his part, being treasurer of the Presbyterian Church for 30 years, relinquishing this position a few yeas ago. He often acted as Church organist, filling in at any time he was wanted. A foundation member of the Berrigan Masonic Lodge, he gave true and faithful service to it in many ways, and gave of his musical talents over a long period in the office of organist. He was the oldest and most highly esteemed member, and one who had gained the distinction of Grand Lodge rank. He was aged 72 years at the time of his death, and is survived by his second wife, and only daughter of his first marriage Bertha ( Mrs. Norman Pola, Berrigan), to whom we join with their many friends, in extending sympathy in their sad and sudden bereavement. A sister, Mrs. I. Walker, of Grenfell, and one brother Frank (Sydney) , also survive him. The funeral, following services at the Masonic Temple and St. Johns' Presbyterian Church, took place to the Berrigan Cemetery last 'Wednesday afternoon. Rev. G. Fox, conducing the services, at the conducting the services at the R. E. Fox, Worshipful Master of the Lodge, the Masonic Service. The lengthy cortege —possibly the largest seen in Berrigan — represented people from all walks of life, who attended to pay their last respects. Among the many floral tributes were wreaths from all sporting clubs and town organisations.
Jerilderie Herald and Urana Advertiser (NSW: 1892; 1898 -1954) Thursday 6 June 1957 page 4, col 2
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1885 - 1957 (72 years) Has no ancestors but one descendant in this family tree.
