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Robert Forrest (1854–1924)

After an illness extending over a brief period, Mr. Robert Forrest passed away about 6 o'clock on Wednesday evening. For several days he hung between life and death but it was recognised by all that recovery was beyond the bounds of possibility.

The late Mr. Forrest was seventy years of age having been born at Picton in 1854. He was the second youngest son of the late William Forrest, and the only surviving member of the family is Mr. Jas Forrest, of Seaview, Lowden. Brothers who pre-deceased him were the late Lord Forrest and the late David Forrest.

At an early age he took over the Koombana Flour Mill from his father, the pioneer flour miller of the S.W., and controlled the increasing business of the mill right up to the time of his last illness. He took no part in public affairs, differing in this respect from several of his brothers, and consequently was not known personally except to a small circle of intimate friends. In all business dealings he was noted for his scrupulous honesty. Plain 'John Blunt' in everything, his word was his bond, a fact that is conceded by all with whom he transacted business.

The late Robert Forrest was twice married, his first wife having died in 1909. No children survive him.

The funeral took place yesterday afternoon in the Old Bunbury Cemetery, the remains being laid to rest beside those of his wife. The pall bearers were: Messrs Foster Johnson, E. A. Proporjohn, A. R. Foreman, A. F. Spencer, T. W. Paisley, C. Properjohn, R. W. Lowe, and Capt. Lloyd. Messrs James Forrest (brother), H. and R. Reading. E. Scott and Alex Roberts (nephews) were the chief mourners. A large concourse of residents of Bunbury and the South West assembled at the graveside to pay their last token of respect to the dead. The last rites of the church were conducted by Canon Adams.

Many beautiful wreaths and floral tributes were placed on the coffin.

Original publication

Citation details

'Forrest, Robert (1854–1924)', Obituaries Australia, National Centre of Biography, Australian National University, https://oa.anu.edu.au/obituary/forrest-robert-17352/text29102, accessed 29 March 2024.

© Copyright Obituaries Australia, 2010-2024

Life Summary [details]

Birth

5 September, 1854
Bunbury, Western Australia, Australia

Death

26 November, 1924 (aged 70)
Bunbury, Western Australia, Australia

Cultural Heritage

Includes subject's nationality; their parents' nationality; the countries in which they spent a significant part of their childhood, and their self-identity.

Occupation