ForeverMissed
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Her Life
April 10, 2016

Madge was born in Belgrave, Victoria, the youngest of four children. Her parents were Sydney Walter Hunt and Alice May Ashton. Her father was born in Launceston and moved to Victoria with his family round the turn of the 20th century. Alice Ashton was born in Blakeville, being one of the youngest in a family of 17. Madge's parents settled in Belgrave after the Great War where Sydney had been appointed Postmaster, a position he held in town until 1936. Madge had a happy childhood in Belgrave. Her cheery attitude attracted a lot of friends. The GPO transferred Sydney to the city as his qualifications didn't match the increasing demands of the growing post office at Belgrave. Eventually Madge and her family found a new home at 334 Danks St Middle Park. Her father was appointed postmaster at Spotswood until the end of his career. Madge began work at Myer in September 1937. She worked mainly in the Skirt and Blouse, and Stationery departments. In the six months before she left in November 1942, Madge was one of the many volunteers working at the Myer established nightclub called the, "Myer Dugout". It's not known how often she was rostered on at the club but to a sociable young woman of about 20, the place must have been a blast. The club catered to many thousands of service personnel every week, mainly Americans. One night a week was set aside for black soldiers as segregation for US troops was in force. The club must have meant something to her as after her death, an apron she wore there, was found among her possessions. Madge left Myer to work with her father at the Spotswood Post Office. His aim was to get her into a protected occupation, to avoid being drafted in any of the services. In 1946, a young man named robert was inside the post office doing some contract painting. He was no stranger to the Hunts as he and his family lived nearby for over 50 years. The pair would often trade comments in jest. One of which, resulted in Bob splattering a little paint on Madge. This didn't go down too well but they were married the following year in March. April 1948 saw the birth of their first child, Stephen. In 1952, the family moved to their newly built home at Pascoe Vale. In 1954 Janice was born and two years later, the youngest, Colin arrived. In the early 60s after an extension to the house had been built, Madge's frail and elderly father moved in. He stayed until his death in 1965 with Madge caring for him right up till his last moments. Madge was involved in or supported many interests. She was a life member of the Lone Guides, St Andrew's Cricket Club and the St Andrew's Football Club. She taught at sunday school in Middle park and at her local church, St Andrew's in Pascoe Vale South. She was a founding member of the Murray Clan Society, holding the post of secretary up till her death. She was a long time member and on the committee of the Ninth Division Sappers' Association of which Bob was a founding member. Madge enjoyed visiting various Highland gatherings, mainly in Daylesford, Ringwood, Geelong and Berwick.  Her football team was the Richmond Tigers. Her favourite food included lamb in just about configuration, and pavlova. She was rather fond of hot chips and a good cup of black tea. Mum cooked a brilliant boiled fruit cake and made lovely sweets for Easter and Christmas. The last 25 years of her life in particular, were impacted by various medical problems. She kept on smiling even though her lifestyle, mobility and quality of life were forcing many changes.in and outside her home. Madge was loved and respected by many who came into contact with her. She had a big heart. Madge will be forever loved and dearly missed.