Vale Diane McGrath
It is with a very heavy heart that I write this tribute to Diane. Her sudden death has shocked and saddened the whole Rotary Club. She is someone who will be sadly missed and will leave a big hole in our club.
Diane was a Rotarian since June 2006 but her connection and contribution to the club started well before that date. Peter McGrath joined the club in 1988 and Diane has been connected to the club since that time. She has been very supportive of all club activities and has been an excellent Bulletin Editor. This Rotary year she has taken on the role of Club Secretary. I was so pleased when she said she take on that job because I knew she would do a fantastic job and be a great support.
Education was Diane’s profession and she only retired from full time work in the last few years. She was a dedicated teacher who worked for the best outcomes for her students. She had great sympathy for them and spoke about the joys and tribulations of teaching. Once she retired Diane joined Peter in his business at Footscray Collision Repair and she could often be found there in the office.
Animals were her passion, and she had a very soft heart where they were concerned. This led to her and Peter over the years adopting many stray dogs. They couldn’t have found a better home where they could join the other dogs, cats and horses already in residence and become part of the family. Diane often spoke about her dogs, their personalities and what they got up. She also spoke of her sadness when one was ill or had passed away.
Diane enjoyed a trip to Ireland in 2022 where she and Peter spent time with their son and had planned another trip this year in July. Family and friends had an important place in her life. Every Saturday she would visit her mum in a nursing home and she and Peter had just spent time in Tasmania with friends.
All our Rotary Club members extend condolences to Peter and family.
Diane will be sorely missed.
A celebration of Diane's life will be held at 11.00am on Tuesday 28th February at Seaview Events Centre, Williamstown Football Ground, Morris St Williamstown.
Maria Silber - President
