Aloysiad 15-12 2006.indd - St Aloysius

from SACOBU
One of John’s life-long interests was Sydney Harbour,
and the ships that used it, an interest probably fuelled
by the proximity of the College to the water. After a few
years, he could name all the ferries and visiting ships, their
dimensions, displacement, capacities, ports of origin, when
and where they were to dock, when to depart.
He travelled widely within, and beyond Australia. He
loved bush walking in the Blue Mountains, and regular
visits to O’Reilly’s Lodge, in the rainforest of the Lamington
National Park, where he became a personal friend of many
of the very extensive O’Reilly clan.
John did not enjoy good health, particularly in his latter
years. Some ten years ago, he was hospitalised with a
heart attack, followed fairly soon by a serious stroke. He
was greatly saddened by the death in 2002 of his only
love, his sister Cecily, but he bore all these set-backs with
characteristics fortitude.
He had a quiet, thoughtful and unassuming nature,
underpinned by kindness and compassion. Being always
conscious of the needs of others, he gave frequent
charitable donations; he worked voluntarily at the Australian
Jesuit Mission in North Sydney, and performed frequent
small acts of kindness among his elderly neighbours in
Crows Nest. He did not achieve to great eminence in the
worldly scale of priorities, but rather in spiritual values In
accord with the two great commandments of the Gospels,
he loved his God, and he loved his neighbour. He was a
good friend, and truly a gentle man.
A Mass to celebrate John’s life was held at St Mary’s,
North Sydney on 21 November 2006
Tony Ryan (SAC1946)
Craig Buckley (SAC 1983)
Three years ago Craig was diagnosed with a very
rare Cancer. It was also considered one of the most
aggressive of all cancers. Craig underwent three operations
and chemotherapy.
At his fortieth birthday in mid-July, Craig spoke confidently
of coping with his cancer and said he would get past it. He
had a very positive attitude and even bought himself a new
set of golf clubs and shoes, and a ticket to the Brisbane
Rugby test!
Shortly after new tests showed the cancer had spread
and no further treatment was possible.
Craig was born on 14 July 1966, the eldest child of John
and Marilyn and older brother to Karen and Michelle.
As the first child he was “perfect in his parents and
grandparents eyes. As a boy Craig was kind and
considerate, not dominating or overpowering. Craig was
always more interested in how other people were and what
they were doing, rather than discuss his illness.
Craig was educated at St Aloysius’ College and played
in the 2nd XV. After school he joined Westpac and was a
loyal employee reaching the position of Global Manager
for Complex and Structural Products, which meant travel
to Hong Kong, Japan, New York, London and Singapore.
The fact that some many of his colleagues from Westpac
are here today is evidence of their respect and admiration
for him.
He had a special friendship with Charles Moses and
Adam Laws.
Craig spent many happy times with his cousins Stephen,
Mark, Rick, Suzy, and Mike, particularly at Christmas or
Easter and family functions.
Craig enjoyed life and really lived it! Craig certainly
achieved many things, but his real passion was golf.
He managed to sink three hole-in-one’s in competitions
representing Manly Golf Club, his second home! Craig
also enjoyed swimming, surfing and skiing, everywhere he
travelled. He loved all sports and was a great supporter of
the “Sea Eagles”.
Craig had a fine group of true friends, as well as a
loving and supportive family.
Family were his top priority, everyone from his parents-inlaw
who came out for a surprise for his fortieth birthday, to
his parents and loving wife Shelley and his children.
Shelley we admire your bravery and strength, and the
love and support you gave Craig, despite the difficulties
of his illness. Our prayers and thoughts are for you and all
your family. We will always remember how Craig enriched
our lives with his friendship, courage and determination,
and his great kindness and affection.
Paul Flynn (SAC 1952)
Eternal Rest grant to them O Lord
and let perpetual light shine upon them,
may their Souls and all the Souls
of the faithfully departed Old Boys of the College,
through the mercy of God, rest In Peace. Amen.
St Aloysius, pray for us!
St Aloysius’ College
A Jesuit School for Boys _ Founded 1879 a l o y s i a d / p a g e 4 4