Bob and Irene Graham tragically passed away in their caravan at the Pilliga bore baths last week. They were second generation proprietors of the local Ice works, which the family run for over 45 years.
Bob came to Port Macquarie from Macksville and he and his father purchased the Ice works and the Peters Ice-cream distribution in 1951.
Irene moved from Telegraph Point to work at the Niagara cafe where she first met Bob. They were married in 1953 and went on to have 8 children.
Irene was an excellent seamstress and enjoyed cooking, gardening and caring for her children. Bob was a founding member of the Port Macquarie Fire brigade and a keen amateur geologist.
They were pioneer caravanners with many holidays spent travelling in their Land Rover, towing the caravan that Bob built to places such as Burren Junction,Lightning ridge and Pilliga.
The family moved from the Ice works in Gordon Street to Steven Street Settlement Point in the early ‘70’s and took advantage of the river and fishing activities.
Bob and Irene were regular dancers at West Port Bowing club and their love of dancing had them following the entertainers ‘The Four Aces’ where ever they happened to be playing.
Bob ran a refrigeration repair business and with that and his fire brigade service, which spanned 30 years, he became a well known local identity.
One of Bob’s passions was restoring vintage steam and fire engines which was shared with his lifelong friend Mate McWhirter.
Anything that Mate couldn’t fix or repair Bob could, and between them there was a veritable wealth of skill and knowledge.
In the later years Irene and Bob enjoyed their 22 grandchildren and 12 great grandchildren, and would regularly travel to visit them.
In retirement they were able to pursue their interest in gem and mineral hunting and their excellent health allowed them to continue to make regular trips to the artesian baths as a part of their caravanning adventures.
Family and friends are shocked and devastated at their sudden and tragic passing.
Irene was a gentle and caring woman and Bob was a generous and giving man and both will be sadly missed.
