VALE JIM STARKEY

The members of the Bowral Bowling Club, and particularly the bowlers themselves, register our sorrow at the passing of Jim, and offer our sincere condolences to Jan and Jim’s family.

Jim was a wonderful, kind man, so kind indeed that his nickname was ‘gentleman’ . . . gentleman Jim. Always courteous, happy and smiling, Jim brightened up your day when you ran into him. And of course, this was not just in the old days, but very much includes the time since he was diagnosed with cancer and was receiving treatment.

Over the last couple of years as the Committee was organising social bowls for the day, Jim would always wander up to the office when he arrived at the Club to say g’day and ask if there was anything that needed doing. There rarely was, but he always offered and nothing was too much if a hand was needed.

On the green, Jim was a very good bowler and was very generous in his praise of others. About twelve months ago, Jim had a run of very close games on the green with Jim usually losing by one or two shots. Unphased, Jim kept saying ‘ah, it will be me next week and maybe by a few more shots.’ And it happened; results changed and the gaps widened, but, alas, not always in Jim’s favour. Such is bowls!

As indicated, Jim was a very good bowler but this didn’t stop him from trying to improve his game. It’s not all that long ago that Jim joined coach Robin Staples’ group to take on some advanced coaching. Being modest and unassuming, he enjoyed the challenge and opportunity to give his game a bit of a shine.

Very generous with his time, Jim was always available to help out with the Probus days when they turned out on the green, giving his time willingly and patiently. This generosity of spirit was always extended to the newer bowlers at the Club, and Jim was always very happy to play with them.

We have lost a remarkable man and friend. Farewell Jim Starkey, RIP.