TERRENCE JOHN KNOWLES
Parkes RSL Sub Branch members have described their former president Terry Knowles as a true gentleman and a kind man.
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They said it was "probably the biggest and saddest news for members" when they heard of his sudden passing on Monday, August 10, 2020, at the age of 75.
Terry had joined the RSL in 1980 and during his 40 years of membership, he had served in every position on the Parkes Sub Branch executive.
Terry's early years saw him born at Horsham in Victoria as the eldest of three children. In 1952 Terry, along with his parents Alf and Annie, moved to Parkes with Annie's brother Tom Sheargold and started Parkes Industries.
Terry attended Parkes Public School and Parkes High School before moving to Wollongong where he commenced training as an Industrial Chemist. In 1965, Terry was conscripted into the army where he served two years of National Service after his initial "rookie" training at Kapooka where he made many lifelong friendships.
Terry's oldest and closest friends were from his army training days with 23rd Platoon and one of his fondest and most anticipated days were the reunions with his Nasho mates.
At the completion of his army days Terry joined the Environmental Protection Agency and moved to Bathurst in the early 80s until his retirement as a senior environmental protection officer.
Terry was a brilliant scholar and had a long association with Charles Sturt University, not only as a student but as a lecturer, and it all culminated with Terry gaining a Master's Degree in Environmental Science.
Apart from his vast time spent helping out with the Sub Branch Terry loved his family get-togethers where he could indulge in a few of his favourite pastimes - a few beers, lots of talking and teasing the kids.
He had a long-time association with the Parkes Services Club as its president over the past 10 years but it was his years of voluntary work calling the bingo, raffles and club draws that he loved most.
Terry was a life member of Parkes Services Club as well as the Parkes RSL Sub Branch. Terry was a good man, kind man, an honourable man. Truly a gentleman and a scholar.
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