Married to Garry for almost 50 years, Wendy, 73, who passed away on Saturday, March 4, had said her greatest achievement was her family. But she certainly was a star in her own right.
At the funeral service conducted by celebrant Rhonda Livingstone, son-in-law Kieran delivered the eulogy which included tributes from Garry, their grown-up children Cara (Bott), Evan and Jess (Kelly), and a special Mother’s Day Movie from Nana’s eight grandchildren.
Born in Geelong on October 21, 1949, Wendy was a prefect at Ashwood High School. Kieran’s eulogy included the following:
“At the end of her Matric year (equivalent of Year 12), she applied for, and received, a cadetship in Retail at Myer.
“These positions were highly prized and hard to get - they trained the cadets in all aspects of retail from customer service to purchasing, team management, etcetera.
“She absolutely loved the job and always said this was her training ground for leading her into her own business.
“On the 15th of December 1973, Wendy and Garry were married in Olinda in the Dandenongs, at the reception venue, Tathra Hut, making this year their 50th year of marriage.
“In addition to her time working with Myer, Wendy also worked for Book Street Bureau personnel consultants when she lived in Sydney and was able to transfer her position when she returned to Melbourne.
“Even after the birth of Cara, Wendy’s work ethic was such that she took on part-time work in selling and developed a strong interest in the area of home decor and interior design.
“Merging their experience in the retail and shoe industries, Wendy and Garry opened their first family business Yarrawonga known as Riverboot Company in 1981. ‘The Shop’ as it was affectionately referred to in the family, operated for 34 years prior to Wendy’s retirement, with daughter Jess joining the business along the way and eventually taking it over and continuing the family legacy.
“During her time in local business in Yarrawonga, Wendy also ventured into other endeavours, at one stage also opening an Australiana gift wear and clothing store, Cobber Clobber 1989, in a shop front adjoining River Boot Company.
“Further demonstrating her eye for detail, locals and tourists alike admired the range and quality of stock, including brands that continue to be well regarded today.
“Wendy was known for her amazing window displays which would often involve creative and unique styling, themed according to seasons, events and current fashions of the time.
“School shoes were a particular hallmark of Riverboot Company, with Wendy being responsible for fitting an estimated 50,000 plus children for their first ever school shoes.”
Garry commented: “Beyond her work life Wendy involved herself in many local groups, activities, and events. These included the local theatre group Allegro where she performed a number of roles including producer, prompt, front of house, marketing and various other roles. The experience with Allegro was truly a family bonding experience, with Garry, Cara, Evan and Jess at times all also involved in some capacity.
“Ever the proud community member, Wendy regularly attended local balls, events and fundraisers in the town. Often, she would provide clothes and merchandise for fundraisers including fashion shows, with the Great Inland Boat and Water Show fashion parade a key feature on the calendar for many years.
“Wendy was also central to many social activities among local business owners in Belmore Street, including street parties, footy tipping comps and the Tattslotto syndicate.”
Wendy loved her family and the love was reciprocated.
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