Obituaries
Distinguished philosopher turned to writing crime fiction
Philosopher Janna Thompson gained an international reputation for her work on historical reparations, prompted in the first instance by John Howard’s stance on the “stolen generations”.
- by Anitra Nelson and Carmel Shute
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‘His prominence’ Sandy Dawson, a barrister like no other
His Darth Vader impersonation was so good it would startle small children.
- by Declan Roche
Pastor’s theological stance was progressive and generous
Brian Porter is remembered across numerous Melbourne parishes as a fine preacher and wise, insightful pastor. He was also a scholar of Anglican Church history and an author.
- by Muriel Porter
The surprising impact of Viagra on a vase of wilting flowers
Food scientist Ron Wills was a pioneer of the battle to keep valuable fruit and vegetables in prime condition in hot climates.
- by Tim Barlass, Peter Allen and Leslie Gonye
Survived the horrors of the blitz in Portsmouth, Plymouth
John McSweeney’s love of horse racing extended to ownership with several winners, trained by Peter Moody and the Hayes family.
- by Kelvin McSweeney
The heart that shone through the music
John Pochee never sought to impress, nor to impose himself on the music. “I just hit things with two bits of wood, and you either like it or you don’t.”
- by John Shand
Centenarian who danced in Obama White House dead at 113
Virginia McLaurin, who became a viral sensation late in life when she danced with Barack and Michelle Obama, has died aged 113.
The Australian doctor who transformed a country
Much of the health infrastructure of present-day Papua New Guinea was brought about by Australian doctor Roy Scragg.
- by Ian Ring
Refugee became outstanding accounting scholar
Born Fritz Kurt Rechtschaffen, Ken Wright was inducted into the Australian Accounting Hall of Fame in 2014.
- by Geoff Burrows and Robert Nicol
Iranian lived on bench at Charles de Gaulle Airport for 18 years
Mehran Karimi Nasseri kept himself meticulously groomed using an airport bathroom, and to begin with relied on Burger King for meals.
Country nurse, gardener and mad-keen lawn bowler
Betty Norton loved to cook for one and all with chocolate and lemon puddings being family favourites and sponge cakes presented when friends visited.