THE Derwent Valley is a poorer place following the deaths of a number of citizens in the last fortnight. Significant losses have been experienced across the community.
- Peter Byron Cooper (1957-2023): Farmer and businessman Peter Cooper passed away at home on August 20. A gathering to celebrate his life was held at Glenleith, Plenty, on August 25. He is survived by wife Gill, their children Alex and Libby and four grandchildren.
- Nora Joan Cawthorn (1928-2023): The widow of local businessman Charlie Cawthorn passed away peacefully, surrounded by family and friends at New Norfolk, on August 17, aged 95. A funeral service will be held at St Matthew’s Anglican Church, Bathurst St, New Norfolk, at 11am on August 28. Donations are invited for the New Norfolk District Hospital in lieu of flowers.
- Craig Marsden Waterhouse (1953-2023): Former police inspector and New Norfolk Lions Club life member Craig Waterhouse died on August 20. A respected member of the Retired Police Association of Tasmania, he will be farewelled at a memorial service at Graham Family Funeral Home, Cnr Risdon and Bay Rds, New Town, on August 28 at 3. Donations may be made to Dementia Australia at the service.
- Yvonne Julienne Bentley, nee Jones (1934-2023): Formerly of Bushy Park, Mrs Bentley passed away peacefully at the Queen Victoria Nursing Home, on August 19. She is survived by husband Garry, former manager of Bushy Park Estates, and their children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Her funeral service was held at Graham Family Funeral Home on August 25.
- James Leonard Watson (1936-2023): “Big Jim” passed away peacefully on August 16, with family members present. Associated with the New Norfolk RSL Sub-Branch and New Norfolk District Football Club, he was farewelled at St Matthew’s Anglican Church, New Norfolk, on August 25, where donations were received for the Kids’ Cancer Project.
- Rex Stafford Purkiss: Mr Purkiss passed away at Corumbene Nursing Home on August 8, in his 97th year, and was privately cremated. The New Norfolk RSL Sub-Branch expressed its condolences to the families of their late comrade. He was also a former member of the Hobart Fire Brigade.
- John Franklin Goldsmith (1956-2023): Former New Norfolk High School teacher and Derwent Valley Concert Band stalwart died suddenly on August 23. John was president of the Post Vintage Car Club of Tasmania and was well-known for driving his classic cars to the schools he worked at.
New Norfolk and Derwent Valley News also acknowledges the passing of others not named here. We extend our sympathies to bereaved family and friends and would be pleased to hear from families interested in having obituaries published.
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