Bob Leister remembered for dedication to family and community

TRIBUTES have been flowing for former Gunnedah & District Historical Society president Bob Leister, who died in Canberra on May 3, aged 87.

Born in Gunnedah on June 28, 1938, Bob spent most of his life in the town he loved and became well known through his work in the agricultural machinery industry and his long service to community organisations.

After beginning his career as a fitter and turner, Bob moved into agricultural sales and farm machinery, a field he remained involved with for decades. His work took him across regional NSW and beyond, and he later estimated he had travelled almost 2.9 million kilometres during 73 years of driving.

In 1966, Bob married teacher Mary Greentree after the pair met at a social gathering at the Gunnedah Golf Club. Together they raised three children, Phillip, Susie and Catherine, and built their family home in Gunnedah.

Friends and family remembered Bob as a practical man who could fix almost anything. His well-equipped garage became legendary among family and friends, and his skill with tools reflected the trade he learned as a young man.

Bob was deeply involved in community life throughout his adult years. He was a member of the Young Catholic Workers, Apex and the Rotary Club of Gunnedah, where he was awarded a Paul Harris Fellow in recognition of his service. He also served on the boards of Alkira and St Mary’s College.

In later years, Bob became closely associated with the Gunnedah & District Historical Society, serving as president for 14 years. He was passionate about preserving local history and enjoyed sharing stories about the people, places and events that shaped the district.

One of the projects he was most proud of was the completion of the Vietnam War memorial murals painted by artist Jenny McCracken, which were unveiled in 2019.

Family members said Bob never lost his curiosity about people and places. He enjoyed travelling, visiting his children wherever they lived and spending time with his grandchildren, whose achievements he followed with great pride.

While his life was marked by many happy memories and lifelong friendships, he also endured significant loss, including the deaths of his son Phillip in 2002 and his wife Mary in 2011.

Speaking at his farewell mass at St Joseph’s Catholic Church, daughter Catherine said the qualities most often used to describe her father were “community minded, gentleman and a caring nature”.

Those who knew Bob say he leaves behind a lasting legacy of service, friendship and dedication to the Gunnedah community.