It can be hard to imagine a senior Australian politician in the days of his youth, rallying teachers in support of the anti-nuclear campaign, or volunteering to work as a teacher in Papua New Guinea during the 1970s – yet passions and political views are shaped over a lifetime and the formative impact of these experiences made the late John Kobelke a respected community leader, honoured by both sides of parliament.
The former West Australian government minister and Labor MP died in hospital on Sunday 23 June 2019, aged just 69, after complications associated with an illness.

Catholic leaders have paid tribute to Sister Anne Derwin RSJ, the former congregational leader of the Sisters of Saint Joseph and president of Catholic Religious Australia, who died peacefully on 23 June at the age of 69.

Founding Senior Director of Flame Ministries International (FMI) and commissioned Catholic evangelist Eddie Russell passed away on 16 May 2019 aged 75.

Christian Brother Gerry Faulkner died peacefully at Catherine McAuley Care Centre on Thursday 11 April at the age of 86.

Jean Vanier, founder of L’Arche communities and co-founder of Faith and Light, died on 7 May at the age of 90.

Monsignor Peter Francis McCrann died peacefully on Sunday 17 February at the age of 95, with his funeral held at St Mary’s Cathedral on 28 February 2019.

Rev Dr Russell Hugh Hardiman will be remembered as an incredibly hardworking, talented, generous, jovial and dedicated priest by all who loved him.

Fr Noel Tobin died on 3 November after 67 years of ministering to parishes in Diocese of Geraldton and the Archdiocese of Perth. Photo: Supplied. By Theresia Titus Geraldton priest Father Noel Tobin will be fondly remembered for making a significant impact to those who knew him. Fr Tobin died peacefully in his sleep on 3 November 2018 at Nazareth House Geraldton at the age of 89. Mo...

Fr Paul Pitzen passed away on 20 October, after having served as a priest for 51 years. Photo: Sourced. By Amanda Murthy There is no doubt Father Paul Pitzen will be remembered as a pillar of strength for the Emmanuel Centre and the wider Perth community, for all his extraordinary works in championing the rights of the people, especially in the areas of disability. Born on 22 November ...

Christian Brother Geoff Seaman died on Saturday 19 August. He was highly regarded in the Girrawheen community as an educator, humanitarian and leader, working tirelessly for various charities and groups. Photo: Supplied By Amanda Murthy More than 800 people gathered at Our Lady of Mercy Church, Girrawheen Parish, on 21 August to bid their final goodbyes to Christian Brother Geoffrey John ...