ForeverMissed
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This memorial website was created in memory of our loved one, Robert Owens. We will remember him forever.
September 13, 2020
September 13, 2020
Robert, I loved our talks about friends we knew and you always would know where they are now and what they were doing. The western twins crossed my mind the other day and now who can I ask. You remembered a great deal of of family life, even to how many bedrooms were in the several houses we lived in. Our journey to Australia on the Strathaird and the friends we met. Brother you are soo sadly missed. Love Richard
August 25, 2020
August 25, 2020
My first contact with Rob was in 1959 when my family moved to Melbourne and connected with the Preston Salvation Army. As a result Rob and I were involved in the various activities of the church that included Sunday school and Scouts. Later on we both attended Preston Tech and in fact were in the same class in one year. Neither of us enjoyed our time at the school as it was a very violent place and full of bullies however somehow we got through that and even managed to obtain employment despite this environment!

In time Rob joined me as a member of the Preston Citadel Band under the baton of the somewhat domineering & fiery Alf Hewitt (my uncle!). Unfortunately Rob was not one of the most gifted of players and he often endured the full wrath of Alf for his failure to perform at the level he demanded. Undeterred Rob continued to attend rehearsals and was part of the Band that flew to Hobart in Easter 1965. However, his attendance was agreed on the clear understanding that while he could to play during the church services he would not be allowed to participate in the Saturday night concert. I would think that a lesser person given these circumstances would have rebelled, but no, Rob took this in his stride and confidently turned a negative situation to his advantage. You see he figured that while the rest of the lads were involved in preparing for and involved in the performance it gave him an opportunity to check out and fraternize with the local girls before the rest of us could get involved. In my opinion this clearly was his finest moment in banding and over the years Rob often recalled this aspect with great pride!

In the early sixties Rob & I became regular attendees at Frank Traynor’s Folk Club in Russell Street. It was really only a coffee shop but at the time we thought it was a really cool place with its dimly lit candle-lit interior, barrels for tables and fold-up stools for seating. I believe that this was the beginning of Rob’s life long love of live music. However this particular experience became somewhat mundane for Rob and after a time he moved on to rock bands with his yellow Mini often spotted near the Thumpin’ Tum & his favourite venue Sebastians.

In the late sixties I departed for London and upon my return Rob & Sue more or less immediately headed to London and as a result it was some five or six years before I was able to reconnect. Upon their return our friendship continued as before and for many years the Owens & Hewitt families spent a considerable time together. During this period we enjoyed two holidays in Noosa & spent the days with kids by the pool or on the beach. Rob as ever was keen to sample new adventures and as a result we both learned to sail catamaran’s on the main Noosa beach and also went for regular long walks in the adjoining Noosa National Park. It was here on one particularly hot day that we decided to have an ‘au naturale’ swim at the nudist friendly Alexandra Beach. With great enthusiasm and excitement in we went only to learn a somewhat painful lesson that it is best for males in these circumstances to enter the surf backwards!

When Rob took long service from IBM that eventually lead on to his retirement Dave Collett and I met up with him once a week for coffee and/or lunch. In time we were joined by Merv Collins and thus Thursday Lunch was born. Often the arrangement was that we would meet under the clocks at Flinders Street Station were we would decide on a venue. On numerous occasions Rob would be given the responsibility to choose a venue given he lived in Southbank and therefore had considerable local knowledge. This caused some consternation for the somewhat stingy Dave as he worried that with Rob’s enjoyment of classy restaurants & fine wine that meals would cost way in access of his $20 limit. However Rob was more than up to the challenge and spent hours pounding the pavement in locating suitable places one of which was a lunch special at $15!

Thursday Lunch for me was the best time of the week and gave Rob a platform for sharing his learned views on numerous subjects.  These times were full of laughter and somewhat outrageous topics including often retold recollections of the past. None of us escaped the barbed comments & sarcasm as we reviewed past participation in sporting activities, music, travel, cars and relationships. In course we received an invitation to travel to Thailand where an old mate of ours Richard Cooper resides with his Thai wife Lyn. The travel arrangements presented a little bit of an issue for Rob as he was used to travelling business class with IBM whereas the only direct route was with Jetstar. I was given the responsibility of making the booking for Dave & Merv while Rob indicated he would attend to his own.  Our seats were in the centre down the back of the plane near the toilets but Rob somehow finished up near the front in a window seat. Not quite business class but Rob handled the downgrade with good humour and was relieved that the hotel was 4 star which he indicated was his minimum acceptable standard!!

I guess over the years the Thursday Lunch mob must have worn down Rob’s expectations as he agreed that we would participate in a trip to China with a TripaDeal 2 for 1 deal. Rob was somewhat relieved to learn that we would be flying with Qantas and that the hotels were reported to be of a 3/4 Star standard. These ratings proved to be more or less correct with the exception of the one in Beijing that was absolutely dreadful. (think weeds growing in the shower recess!) As the trip progressed it became apparent that Rob was somewhat unwell to the point that he was unable to participate in the final two days activities. Despite this Rob pushed himself to the limit by walking some six kilometres in an endeavour to locate a Peking Duck restaurant as this was high on his bucket list. That night in company with a number of others from the tour we enjoyed a magnificent meal that Rob devoured with great relish!

Rob continued to attend Thursday lunches or coffee while undergoing treatment though as time went by it was clear he was somewhat struggling. Despite this he always remained positive and often with great humor would relay details of the latest issues he was dealing with. His view throughout was that if time was running out for him he had done everything he had wanted to and would leave nothing on the table.

Rob was always fun to be with, had a passion for life and thrived on new adventures and places to see. He loved participating in outdoor activities whether this was trekking (Everest Base Camp & Macchu Pitchu to name a few), cycling or jogging and who would forget him completing his first half marathon at 72! I was so fortunate to be able to share some of these activities with him and in fact we were planning to cycle from Wangaratta to Bright on the rail trail but alas this could not be fulfilled. However, I plan to undertake this in his honour and I know I will feel his presence alongside me (well in fact he will be in front, as always, setting the pace!) Rob was in many ways my hero and I will never ever forget him and the wonderful times we spent together.
August 11, 2020
August 11, 2020
I knew Rob as Mark’s dad. Even though I went to kindergarten with Mark it wasn’t until primary school in the 80’s that I have my first memories of Rob & Sue. Such cool parents! It is with deep sadness that I send love & condolences to Mark, Louise, Sue & family for your loss. Rob was such a kind, loving man. I will forever cherish my memories of him.
August 10, 2020
August 10, 2020
I am very lucky to have had Rob and Sue as my in laws. Rob as my brother in law and Sue as whatever that role is called.  Rob was very family minded and welcoming to all his family and extended family. He had the singular role of being in the UK, where we then lived, for the birth of both the children and our wedding. The latter was timed with him in mind but the birth of the children was entirely co-incidental. Thanks so much to IBM for sending him over for these important events. As the years went on we enjoyed Rob and Sue’s hospitality in Italy and Melbourne, always happy to see us, fetch from the airport and party on! Dinner, theatre, arguments and coffee were all to be enjoyed together. We shared a love of politics and came to agree more over the years (actually I think Rob’s arguments were often for the sake of a discussion). Rob enriched my life and for that I thank him and regret his passing. It was way too soon.
July 16, 2020
July 16, 2020
I first met Rob after he joined IBM and when I was the customer, a systems programmer/ network engineer at Shell's data centre in Doncaster (way back then). He, together with Ron Gerstner, were my PSRs - as I recall Rob took over the role when Ron relocated to Sydney. Rob embodied the IBM spirit of "best customer service" and whilst I might have breathed down his neck once or twice I was always in awe of his skills. 

Some years later I joined IBM and like Rob followed the Systems Engineering path, and as Peter mentions, a member of the technical forum/ lunch club known as LAIG.

And similarly we ended up in Sales, including having the privilege of being mentored by Barry. Rob was way more successful in that role than I was, and I moved over to becoming a consultant. 

Nonetheless we were always bumping into one another, for the next fifteen years, and after I became at the president of the Victorian chapter of the IBM Quarter Century Club (a kind of alumni association) it was always a great pleasure to welcome Rob and Sue to our Annual Dinners.

I am sorry for the family's loss, his friends' loss, and the loss to all the IBMers who knew him - I sure his many customers remember him well and respect him for his works on their behalf.

I will always remember him for having a cheeky face, a wonderful smile, and a generous personality
July 10, 2020
July 10, 2020
A life well lived Rob. Full of fun, adventures, love and laughter. You knew how to enjoy time with friends and family and none more so than when you had your air guitar in hand! A gentle soul who will be missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing him. Deepest sympathy to Sue, Mark, Louise and all the family. Love Deb and Bill
July 7, 2020
July 7, 2020
Rob was very much a glass half full person, an inquisitive and intelligent conversationalist and a good guy. Glad to have known you Rob, with love from Clair as well.
July 3, 2020
July 3, 2020
I came away from my first memorable conversation with Rob viewing him with cold circumspect. He had expressed a very strong, oppositional opinion about something dear to my heart and it had left a little grrr in my mind where his image was. However as life is always hurling lessons in our path, it was that very quality in him that I would seek out at PASSH. I came to adore the time I spent in meaningful conversation with him on the couch; allowing space for our strong opinions to meet and settle in a shared space of respect and love. That was the thing about Rob, he had in equal measure strength and gentleness, jester and wise counsel. He will be sorely missed however I am comforted with the knowledge that while his corporeal body may be gone, his spirit lives bright and strong in his children. And we are all the better for it.
With love and kindness, Jennifer Everett.
July 3, 2020
July 3, 2020
Rob was my father in law and I already miss him hugely. He was taken far too soon. Rob was a great conversationalist. I loved sitting at our big kitchen table and chatting with him about music, travel and life…. Always over a bottle of red wine and a bag of chilli chips (or two). When discussing current affairs, Rob would frequently say “I shake my head” - a very apt response to the world’s events. You could see that Rob was happiest with his family around him. And their friends. He would have a big smile on his face and look proud. In his element. Molly and Eli miss their papa terribly. Molly and papa would build jigsaw puzzles together. Eli and papa always battled over who got the last handful of chilli chips. The kids loved doing morning-tea catchups when they could share papa’s favourite sweet with him, cimbella. I’m so grateful that my kids were able to do such amazing things with their grandpa (and nan). They’ve had holidays to Echuca, the snow, Italy, many summers in Fairhaven. They’ve enjoyed theatre shows and plays together, numerous sleepovers and so much more. These are cherished memories they will always have of their beloved papa.
We miss you Rob. May you rest in peace. I like to think you’re sitting somewhere with Clare having a G&T. 
July 3, 2020
July 3, 2020
Rob,I didnt know you that well,but...I'll remember...sharing gelatta in Gualdo;talking about music in Casa Zazza,sharing meals with nice wine with Sue ,Ken and Akiko; sharing a glass of wine with you and meeting Clare at my home in Paris,with Mum and Vanesa; I often repeat your joke of Paris beeing the city where,when you're looking for your way,you can say :"first Mc Donald's on your right/ then third Mc Donald's on your left..." so sadly true....
Another nice meeting around a glass of wine in your hôtel in Paris, with Sue and Vanesa...
In fact memories of a very gentle, épicurien,cultivated, music loving, sportiv,family loving man.
Do Rest In Peace,and much thinking of your family. Fabienne.
July 2, 2020
July 2, 2020
It was my privilege to work with Rob at IBM where he was always thoroughly professional but still a pleasure to work with. Those days may be long gone now but being able to reminisce about the people and events over lunches has been one of life's joys in recent years. Rob will be sorely missed at future lunches.
July 2, 2020
July 2, 2020
Rob was indeed a very special person with the finest sense of humility, humor, friendship and IBM professionalism.
I wish I had had some contact with Rob of late.
My deepest thoughts are with his nearest and dearest.
See you later, Bob.
Hans
July 2, 2020
July 2, 2020
Happy memories from 1965 of being taxied around Melbourne in Robs bright yellow Mini. A big adventure for a girl from the Beatles Liverpool.
With love from the Campbell Family
July 2, 2020
July 2, 2020
Uncle Rob is my favourite uncle, as I let him know often. Whenever I saw him outside of Melbourne, he would demand to know when I was coming to visit. I took him up on his invite many times. It was a pleasure to be taken around by someone who loved their city so much.

We connected over our passion for food and restaurants. Once, many years ago, he took us to the Buddha Bar in Paris. I remember thinking it was, and he was, so cool.

Back in Melbourne, our tram dinner is another fond memory. Rob was also a generous host to our French family. I know Vanesa had an amazing time and has a framed photo of her tram dinner with Sue and Rob.

At Mark and Lauren's wedding, I remember being in awe of Rob's strength and eloquence when he gave a moving, difficult speech, so soon after we lost Clare.

Each PASSH, I would pay attention to Rob’s mood after dinner, to sense if that was going to be the night he took us on a musical journey; rocking out to Nirvana with his eyes closed.

Thanks Rob for these and many more memories, and for being my very best uncle.

Thinking of Aunty Sue and all her family <3
July 1, 2020
July 1, 2020
How do you say goodbye to the boy who played Robin Hood to your Will Scarlet in the ruins of a Norman Castle, who picked potatoes with you in the cold of October days for pocket money, to the brother whose very presence marks every page of your life? You don't, you treasure every memory - the sadness and the happiness. Go gentle into that last goodnight brother of mine.
July 1, 2020
July 1, 2020
Abbiamo conosciuto Robert nel 2012 e,anche se lo abbiamo incontrato poche volte, lo ricorderemo sempre come una profonda e splendida persona!
July 1, 2020
July 1, 2020
I first new the Owens family in 1960 as Rob's younger brother Graham was in my class. I also had some car experiences with Rob ....he was the first person I knew to own a mini minor and then later I towed his Austin Healey back from Werribee. I don't think we crossed paths much again til 1971 in London and then not til 2017 when the old boys (Merv, Dave, Trev and Rob) came up to Phuket and not surprisingly I didn't recognize the hairless Rob.
The Owens family were a significant part of my family life in Preston and I pass our condolences from the Cooper family to Sue and family.
June 30, 2020
June 30, 2020
Generous, hospitable and adventurous. A life fully lived.
Deepest sympathy and love to Sue and all the family.
Vale Rob.
June 30, 2020
June 30, 2020
Robs passing whilst not a shock certainly comes with a great deal of sadness .
I met rob at IBM and I was lucky to get to know Rob very well Sharing many exciting and enjoyable moments working together on deals Rob was a great sales person who brought interpersonal skills and organisation to his deal making. He was a great tutor and I owe him a lot.
Since leaving IBM we have been able to keep in touch through our lunch group still enjoying Robs zest for life
Best wishes to you Sue Rob may have left us but he will be remembered.
June 30, 2020
June 30, 2020
Ah Rob, it's been a long journey - I can even remember when you had hair! We were young 'ten pound Poms' in the same church environment at Preston Salvation Army in 1964. We played in brass band together though your interest in your cornet was far outweighed by your attraction to the young women in the corps in their bonnets and black stockings. It's fair to say you were more successful with them than you were with your brass instrument. At least, until Sue settled you down.

Our lives took different directions for fifty years till your two great mates, Trevor Hewitt and Dave Collett, brought us together again. In retirement, we became young again and formed our lunch club where we travelled the city and the suburbs looking for a culinary bargain in Dave's stingy price range!

Conversations resumed where they left off and we talked, mostly, of those good old days and laughed at the same embellished and somewhat risque stories. Geez, I'll miss that nonsense, Rob - especially as I think it was your turn to buy coffee!

And you took us to jazz clubs and concerts - you never lost your love of a live band.

We went to Rawai in Thailand to catch up with a fifth member of Salvos '64. It was such fun just laughing, eating, drinking and getting a massage.

We planned to do it again but that won't happen now. That's okay, Rob, I've memories enough to last me.

Rest easy, old chap, and thanks for all the good times we shared.

                         -----------------------------
And a final thought to Sue and the family: thank you from the rest of us for the love and care you've shown Rob in these most difficult of times. Yours is a terrific family and one that a fine man like Rob can be proud of. Every good wish and strength for the days ahead.
June 30, 2020
June 30, 2020
Rob and I go back to the early 70’s at IBM, both working on mainframe systems, where Rob was a Program Services Representative, a lose term for some one that fixed operating systems when they broke down, usually with someone breathing down your back, as deadlines were being missed. Stressful, yes, satisfying, most definitely.
Our love for wine and good food soon became a drive to collect others of same mind and inclination, by starting a lunchtime group, which would convene a number of times a year for over 40 years. The last one being in 2019 before Rob had his first unwelcome prognosis.
In Canberra during the 70’s (one of many IBM technical courses, run over multiple weeks), it was decided that the greatest new sport was hang gliding. As such a number of us decided to invest in a hang glider with many crashes later, much fun and enjoyment was gained by all of us. Fortunately, we all survived the mayhem that was hang gliding in those early days of the sport.
Since then, the lunches continued and I met up with Rob again in 2000 in a working position, with my re-joining IBM. Rob was then a well regarded and successful marketeer and continued until he decided that it was time to spend more time in Italy. IBM had other ideas and enticed him to stay for a final chorus, until retirement and a life without IBM beckoned again.
Robbie, I am going to miss you mate, your love for life and family, this is not the final curtain call that we were expecting and most definitely not warranted.
June 30, 2020
June 30, 2020
We have treasured every day of over 30 years of friendship with Rob and Sue. We have many fond memories of Rob, including trips away, enjoying special food and wine, and just having a good chat about how to solve the problems of the world. These discussions would always include the ‘Rob’isms’ that we will remember and love such as ‘I shake my head!!’

We will always miss Rob and will hold these special memories close to us. 

Sue and Andy
June 30, 2020
June 30, 2020
Robert I will miss you my friend.

Thank you for taking the time to mentor and guide me, thank you for sharing your experiences and knowledge, thank you for always having the time to talk, thank you for helping me see a different perspective, thank you for teaching me to listen, though most of all thank you for times we spent together and your friendship.

You hold a special place in my life and that of my family; I hold dear the afternoon we spent with my Grandfather talking about the war and the march of the Germans through the farm, hopefully you will meet him in your travels and continue the recollections over a glass of red.
June 30, 2020
June 30, 2020
I met Rob in 1997 when I joined IBM. He was kind, embracing and professional and as a colleague it became apparent to me that he had this uncanny 6th sense when it came to selling. He was one of the best deal makers that I have known. Wise, level headed, a great strategic thinker. I learnt so much from him.

We spent many nights working on deal deadlines in different cities and most always we would be at a great Pizza place that he knew of and over a bottle of a red we shared our life's journey and stories. I remember the love he had for his family by the many stories he shared. He had a great sense of humor, a very generous spirit and a love for life.

I was fortunate to work with him, along side him and know Rob as a friend.

He will be missed
June 30, 2020
June 30, 2020
We first met Rob and Sue at Templestowe Heights PS where Louise and our
children attended. We soon formed a friendship group and enjoyed many
family adventures with them.  Ski trips to Mt. Hotham and who could forget
the navigation of those House Boats on the Murray!! We always looked forward to catching up on the Surf Coast in the summer holidays, and Viktor
recalls the marathon walk from Fairhaven to Lorne with the Owens and Milners.

We were fortunate to experience their generous hospitality at the magnificent Cassa Principessa which was the highlight of our trip. The firing up of the outdoor pizza oven, in which Rob took great pride in meticulously following
the traditional technique, was very entertaining. The pizzas were superb too!

Whilst Viktor and Rob shared a love of vintage sports cars, red wine and good
conversation endeavoring to solve the problems of the world, I always felt
a special bond with Rob after discovering early in our friendship that we had
both spent our formative years in Preston and always had a laugh about
growing up in the area.

Viktor still maintains Rob was the best 'Air Guitarist' he has ever played with.

We will miss Rob, will always treasure his friendship and indeed feel blessed to have enjoyed so many special times together.

                     NOW AT PEACE
June 30, 2020
June 30, 2020
I have met Rob only few times in my life but it has been enough to understand what a beautiful person he was. His kindness and good heart are still inspiring. Deepest condolence from us.
June 30, 2020
June 30, 2020
I first met Rob some 45 years ago. Initially I was a little bit intimidated by his perceived intellectual know-how and how well read he seemed to be!
After getting to know Rob more I discovered that:
- he loved a robust discussion
- he loved his kids so much ( and now his grandchildren as well)
- he loved food with a passion - I have never seen anyone eat with such gusto ( and Sue is an awesome cook - so probably no wonder!)
- he loved a good coffee
- he loved his music (though I could never warm to his love of Leonard Cohen!)
Our families enjoyed holidaying together in Noosa and recently Trev and I enjoyed staying with Rob and Sue in Casa Principessa in Italy where Rob’s hosting skills came to the fore and of course we were taken to all the good eating places as you would expect.
I will miss him and his gentle ways, his kindness and sense of humour. Thanks for the great memories Rob.
Much love to Sue, Mark and Louise and to memories of beautiful Clare - and their families xx

Marilyn Hewitt
June 30, 2020
June 30, 2020
I have had the fortunate opportunity in the last 15 years to rekindle and enrich the relationship with my Aunty Sue and Uncle Rob and their wonderful children (my cousins) and their offspring...after playing what I'm sure was a pivotal role as flower girl at Sue and Rob's wedding back all those years ago.
More recent memories are of: discussions and debates and dinners and drinking wine with Rob annually at Falls Creek - always with some Chilli Chips for all and maybe some tune playing a little bit loudly and Rob off with the magic moment of the music; Rob sitting and spending time on the couch with one of his much loved grandchildren - chatting, sharing a drink (with the older ones!), watching a show on the iPad, or just having a laugh; a generosity and pride in showing and sharing his home and his Melbourne with me and my children, Matt and Roo. Keep the music playing...
June 30, 2020
June 30, 2020
For me what comes in mind...

Rob is the most positive and trusting person that I know.

Some 20 years ago he drove me from Melbourne to Lorne in his vintage sport car, cruising along the spectacular Great Ocean Road. It WAS
so exciting and special.  Thank you, Rob!
June 29, 2020
June 29, 2020
I can hardly believe it and i‘m speechless.
Rob was such an inspiring person and I‘m so glad that i got to know him.
I came to the Owens family as an exchange student and i was immediately accepted as a part of the family.
The cohesion and love in your family always fascinated me.
I will never forget the evening on the tram restaurant one week after i arrived. Rob spoke for hours about the old melbourne buildings, which i tried to understand..I felt so comfortable with you and i enjoyed every single moment.
I've heard so many interesting stories and learned an incredible amount from Rob. Whether it is architecture in different countries that he taught us on Christmas Day or that he talked to us about different professions, Rob always had an advise for Laura and me. He just showed us how to live life the right way.
I‘m more than thankful that i had the chance to go to the Great Ocean Road with the whole family. That was definitely the highlight of my time in Australia. This showed me again how strong you are as a family and what wonderful people you are.
I love you with all of my heart,thank you for everything!
Your german granddaughter Luisa xx


June 29, 2020
June 29, 2020
Growing up the Owen’s house was like my second home -next door on Foote St and then around the corner on Glenair St a bit later. I always felt very welcomed there and remember Rob would always call me Natalie Michelle and sing The Beatles song ‘MIchelle ma belle’ .when he saw me.
Love to all the Owens family. Rest In Peace with beautiful Clare.
Nat xx



June 29, 2020
June 29, 2020
Robert, I can still remember when you came to stay at South Wentworthville when you had a contract with IBM to work in Sydney. Yes we did have furniture but you chose to sit on the floor playing your air guitar, headphones on and just blasting away, putting records on the player and guess what, I didn’t have earphones.
I was so privileged to be able to share turning 60 years old in Qualdo. What a great party we had. And you were our tour guide in the local areas.
You mastered marathons and had many challenges in life. You will be dearly missed.
June 29, 2020
June 29, 2020
I first met Rob in the late 80's, I was in the early stages of High School, and had become good mates with his son Mark. He was such a cool Dad with his Vintage TR7 Sports car and had such an awesome taste in music.

I remember the times we had at the Glenair Street house, where he had to put up with all the chaos that high school boys bring....and there were a few....I remember trying to explain to him why there was a hole in the living room wall following a 'rather large' night with Mark. Our excuse that 'Mark was running to answer the phone and tripped' I don't think worked that well......

There were countless other memories about Rob, whether it was me crashing the Fairhaven house almost every year, dinner parties in Southbank, trips to Casa in Italy or Team Bella in Apollo Bay. I was always welcomed, and will always remember the amazing times I spent with him and his family.

My thoughts are with Sue, Mark, Louise and the extended family during this time.

Peter.
June 29, 2020
June 29, 2020
A truly wonderful man with a generous happy heart, Rob was always up for welcoming new friends into the amazing adventures of the Owens fam.

We feel so lucky to have been welcomed in and shown by Rob how to live life to its fullest, sharing and celebrating it with those you love.

We will remember so many special times - snow fun and big table dinners at Falls Creek, running at Apollo Bay with Team Bella, and my favourite memory - dancing and air-guitaring with Rob at Casa Principessa during our wedding night.

Thank you for everything Roberto. You are an inspiration and we will miss you.

xx Love Tina, Simon & Milla
June 29, 2020
June 29, 2020
We remember Rob driving all around Europe, with Sue and her mother in a two-seater mini-van: Sue and Mum took turns sitting in the back. Rob widened our musical tastes by introducing us to "The Doors", (and also tried - but failed - to interest us in Tolkein!) Other happy memories include our many Christmas holidays at Rye with Grandma and Ray.

I remember the Owens family arriving in Australia, many years before Rob met Sue. Little did I realise, back then, that Rob and I would one day be related. Doug and I, and our family, will miss him very much.
June 29, 2020
June 29, 2020
I was lucky enough to be with you and the rest of the mob every year in Falls Creek. What a treat that was; to laugh, to dance, to ski, and sometimes to cry all together.

Those apres-ski chats on the couch at Mogul are the highlight for me. Whether we talked about music, business, or personal - you always had an opinion worth listening to. I will forever remember those times.

Rest in peace Uncle Rob.
June 29, 2020
June 29, 2020
Well where do I start with Rob?! He was just one of the best humans going around. So I'll try not to bang on too much and just highlight my Top 3 things I loved about him:

-the way he made me and everyone around him feel like we were part of his family. One of the most fun, loving, adventurous families going around. What a privilege to be welcomed into that space!
-watching him enjoy music; the broad smile he'd get on his face when a favourite tune was on, sometimes the closed eyes to really feel it, and the frequent air guitaring. Glad Lou shared Rob's play list of faves recently. Going to put it on loud today
- enjoying good food, wine and conversation with him; whether it be at the snow surrounded by his wonderful family and friends. Or be it in Italy, at the gorgeous restaurants he and Sue discovered and kindly shared with us or the many wonderful meals we shared at Casa Principesa. And at Southbank, sat at the table having a good chat over wine and cheese. 

You sure knew how to craft life Rob. And I'm glad I got to be part of it. You really are an inspiration on how to live it to its fullest. Me and my girls will miss you xx
June 29, 2020
June 29, 2020
From childhood Christmas lunches to catch ups at the market with Chloe, you were always a positive influence and more then happy to indulge in discussion about music, thank you for the Rolling Stones and all the good times.

You will be missed Uncle Rob.
June 29, 2020
June 29, 2020
Just after hearing of Rob's passing, I said to myself: Quickly, Ken, what memories of Rob come to mind. Here they are!
1. Sue and Rob's wedding, with a very young Jane as a flower girl.
2. Being taken to the Royal Albert Hall to hear one of his favorite bands.
3. Dinner on the patio overlooking the pool at Casa Principessa. 

What do these have in common?
All were loads of fun!!

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Recent Tributes
September 13, 2020
September 13, 2020
Robert, I loved our talks about friends we knew and you always would know where they are now and what they were doing. The western twins crossed my mind the other day and now who can I ask. You remembered a great deal of of family life, even to how many bedrooms were in the several houses we lived in. Our journey to Australia on the Strathaird and the friends we met. Brother you are soo sadly missed. Love Richard
August 25, 2020
August 25, 2020
My first contact with Rob was in 1959 when my family moved to Melbourne and connected with the Preston Salvation Army. As a result Rob and I were involved in the various activities of the church that included Sunday school and Scouts. Later on we both attended Preston Tech and in fact were in the same class in one year. Neither of us enjoyed our time at the school as it was a very violent place and full of bullies however somehow we got through that and even managed to obtain employment despite this environment!

In time Rob joined me as a member of the Preston Citadel Band under the baton of the somewhat domineering & fiery Alf Hewitt (my uncle!). Unfortunately Rob was not one of the most gifted of players and he often endured the full wrath of Alf for his failure to perform at the level he demanded. Undeterred Rob continued to attend rehearsals and was part of the Band that flew to Hobart in Easter 1965. However, his attendance was agreed on the clear understanding that while he could to play during the church services he would not be allowed to participate in the Saturday night concert. I would think that a lesser person given these circumstances would have rebelled, but no, Rob took this in his stride and confidently turned a negative situation to his advantage. You see he figured that while the rest of the lads were involved in preparing for and involved in the performance it gave him an opportunity to check out and fraternize with the local girls before the rest of us could get involved. In my opinion this clearly was his finest moment in banding and over the years Rob often recalled this aspect with great pride!

In the early sixties Rob & I became regular attendees at Frank Traynor’s Folk Club in Russell Street. It was really only a coffee shop but at the time we thought it was a really cool place with its dimly lit candle-lit interior, barrels for tables and fold-up stools for seating. I believe that this was the beginning of Rob’s life long love of live music. However this particular experience became somewhat mundane for Rob and after a time he moved on to rock bands with his yellow Mini often spotted near the Thumpin’ Tum & his favourite venue Sebastians.

In the late sixties I departed for London and upon my return Rob & Sue more or less immediately headed to London and as a result it was some five or six years before I was able to reconnect. Upon their return our friendship continued as before and for many years the Owens & Hewitt families spent a considerable time together. During this period we enjoyed two holidays in Noosa & spent the days with kids by the pool or on the beach. Rob as ever was keen to sample new adventures and as a result we both learned to sail catamaran’s on the main Noosa beach and also went for regular long walks in the adjoining Noosa National Park. It was here on one particularly hot day that we decided to have an ‘au naturale’ swim at the nudist friendly Alexandra Beach. With great enthusiasm and excitement in we went only to learn a somewhat painful lesson that it is best for males in these circumstances to enter the surf backwards!

When Rob took long service from IBM that eventually lead on to his retirement Dave Collett and I met up with him once a week for coffee and/or lunch. In time we were joined by Merv Collins and thus Thursday Lunch was born. Often the arrangement was that we would meet under the clocks at Flinders Street Station were we would decide on a venue. On numerous occasions Rob would be given the responsibility to choose a venue given he lived in Southbank and therefore had considerable local knowledge. This caused some consternation for the somewhat stingy Dave as he worried that with Rob’s enjoyment of classy restaurants & fine wine that meals would cost way in access of his $20 limit. However Rob was more than up to the challenge and spent hours pounding the pavement in locating suitable places one of which was a lunch special at $15!

Thursday Lunch for me was the best time of the week and gave Rob a platform for sharing his learned views on numerous subjects.  These times were full of laughter and somewhat outrageous topics including often retold recollections of the past. None of us escaped the barbed comments & sarcasm as we reviewed past participation in sporting activities, music, travel, cars and relationships. In course we received an invitation to travel to Thailand where an old mate of ours Richard Cooper resides with his Thai wife Lyn. The travel arrangements presented a little bit of an issue for Rob as he was used to travelling business class with IBM whereas the only direct route was with Jetstar. I was given the responsibility of making the booking for Dave & Merv while Rob indicated he would attend to his own.  Our seats were in the centre down the back of the plane near the toilets but Rob somehow finished up near the front in a window seat. Not quite business class but Rob handled the downgrade with good humour and was relieved that the hotel was 4 star which he indicated was his minimum acceptable standard!!

I guess over the years the Thursday Lunch mob must have worn down Rob’s expectations as he agreed that we would participate in a trip to China with a TripaDeal 2 for 1 deal. Rob was somewhat relieved to learn that we would be flying with Qantas and that the hotels were reported to be of a 3/4 Star standard. These ratings proved to be more or less correct with the exception of the one in Beijing that was absolutely dreadful. (think weeds growing in the shower recess!) As the trip progressed it became apparent that Rob was somewhat unwell to the point that he was unable to participate in the final two days activities. Despite this Rob pushed himself to the limit by walking some six kilometres in an endeavour to locate a Peking Duck restaurant as this was high on his bucket list. That night in company with a number of others from the tour we enjoyed a magnificent meal that Rob devoured with great relish!

Rob continued to attend Thursday lunches or coffee while undergoing treatment though as time went by it was clear he was somewhat struggling. Despite this he always remained positive and often with great humor would relay details of the latest issues he was dealing with. His view throughout was that if time was running out for him he had done everything he had wanted to and would leave nothing on the table.

Rob was always fun to be with, had a passion for life and thrived on new adventures and places to see. He loved participating in outdoor activities whether this was trekking (Everest Base Camp & Macchu Pitchu to name a few), cycling or jogging and who would forget him completing his first half marathon at 72! I was so fortunate to be able to share some of these activities with him and in fact we were planning to cycle from Wangaratta to Bright on the rail trail but alas this could not be fulfilled. However, I plan to undertake this in his honour and I know I will feel his presence alongside me (well in fact he will be in front, as always, setting the pace!) Rob was in many ways my hero and I will never ever forget him and the wonderful times we spent together.
Recent stories

The Market

June 30, 2020
We had the pleasure of seeing Rob and Sue most weekends at the South Melbourne Market. While I knew Rob and Sue through Mark, my now three and six year olds loved catching up. I enjoyed getting to know Rob, his wise counsel and fantastic critical thinking. But most of all I just loved that Rob and Zoe just loved hanging out. I don't know why but they just connected and all of us enjoyed seeing them hang out. Thanks for the great memories. Matt, Ren, GG and Zoe. xo
June 30, 2020
Like so many of us, I’ve also been lucky enough to have Sue and Rob in my life for so many years.

One thing I had forgotten up until yesterday was Rob’s love of music and music discussion, so thanks to everyone here for bringing that one back for me.  This alone brings back many fond memories, and yes I've also had a few musical “chats” with Rob over the years accompanied by some fine wine.

Away from the music, I often remember him opening up often about family history, both his and ours.  He had many stories from his childhood (life with Sue and Cas & Doug among others) which he told incredibly well.  Other highlights for me include the early years at Rye, and a one-off year of PASSH where I was lucky enough to share a lodge with the family, and ski lift or two with Rob and Sue.  He was a great coach too! - First time skier here, so I had a few falls.  Also, I have to mention how wonderfully he spoke at Mark and Lauren’s Wedding, so soon after losing Clare.


Fast forward to my last catch up with Rob and Sue, which was a Sunday night in Melbourne late last year before the news rolled in.  No music chat this time, but I was amazed at his level of fitness… I imagine he must have been at or near his peak.  We started late in the evening and in true style we were soon dining at the last open restaurant in Southbank chatting about life, love, our families today, and a bit of the old family history which I think was also a bit of a sideline passion of his.  Some serious philosophical chat too, and a few laughs of course. 

He looked happy and relaxed as always, obviously very content with his life. These are the memories that I’ll always have of Rob.  By all accounts he had a charmed life with Sue and his wonderful family.

We'll miss Rob greatly. 

The dad I wished I had

June 29, 2020
I lived in the same street as Clare and though we briefly went to primary school together, we didn’t properly become friends until high school. Fair to say that one of the highlights of my teen years was Clare and her family. Clare was special and as soon as I spent (a lot of) time in her home, I understood why. Rob was funny and smart, liked music that they didn’t play on EON FM and was unlike any father I knew. He drove a sporty yellow car that was the antithesis of a family car (which appealed to me immensely) and he sat around on weekends drinking coffee and talking about music and ideas and life, as opposed to mowing the lawn (also appealing). He took me and Clare to our first concert  - Crowded House at Festival Hall. There were many years where I did not see him, but reconnecting veryoccasionally as an adult was my good fortune. I don’t know how this works because I am an atheist, but still, I like to think he is reunited with his beloved Clare now. ❤️

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