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General News

7 March, 2019

Remembering Roy


Remembering Roy - feature photo

ONE of Mareeba’s most adored community members Roy Tyler was laid to rest last Tuesday after passing away peacefully in his sleep on Monday, February 18 at the age of 80.
Roy’s passing prompted an outpouring of tributes from those within the Tablelands community who had the pleasure of knowing him personally.
Roy was known for his extensive commitment to the betterment of the region and his personable nature, and his legacy will be one which lasts for many years beyond his passing.
Roy’s son John Tyler said his father was a charismatic figure in the community.
“Dad loved interacting with people,” he said.
“I think that’s why he continued working in his security job a year up until his passing, it helped keep him going while he was struggling with his illness.”
Roy’s professional career was a diverse one, having owned a horse riding business Pine Vale Ranch on the Tablelands, of which he ran throughout most of his children’s schooling years.
Roy then changed industries in the early 2000’s to own and operate Mareeba Security Services.
Prior to Roy’s time as a businessman in Mareeba, Roy served in the British Army – and it was a very important part of his life according to John.
“He was quite a regimental bloke, which I think he got from serving in the army,” he laughed.
“He could be a strict dad at times, but that was what made me and my siblings who we are today.
“Dad taught us respect, particularly for older people, which is something I feel is being a lost a bit in this day and age.”
Roy’s military background meant that he was a regular at the Mareeba RSL, and John noted his father’s disappointment about its closure.
“Dad was a life member of the RSL, he loved going down there to catch up with his mates and he was quite upset to see it shut down,” he said.
Roy’s greatest passion however was his love for music, and his contribution to the Tablelands music scene was significant, so much so he received a life membership from the Walkamin Country Music Club in 2018.
John said music also acted as a fantastic way for his father to keep himself entertained while battling his debilitating blood disorder.
“He was often singing, whether it was at the hospital or at music festivals around the region,” he said.
“He never did it for the money, it was something he loved to do and it brought great joy to his life.”
John said he wanted to thank those who came together to celebrate his father’s life at last week’s funeral.
“It was great to see so many people at the funeral and it shows just how much of an impact he had on this community,” he said.

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