In Memory of Geoff

By Maree Byrne Join Me

Please help me honour the memory of Geoff

As you know, my darling husband Geoff died on March 6, and our family have decided to hold a private funeral.  Instead of attending a public service and wake, I thought many of you might like to honour Geoff by donating to MSF's Gaza appeal.

Geoff has attended  our RAR (Rural Australians for Refugees) weekly vigils for Gaza on his scooter every Saturday since the war began in October and he was a passionate advocate for human rights and peace & non-violence.

He was a practical man, and loved doing whatever he could to try to make this world a better place.  He served on many community groups in various positions over the years, including U3A, CANwin (Climate Action Now Wingecarribee which evolved into WinZero, RAR Southern Highlands, Southern Highlands Renal Appeal (which eventually resulted in a Dialysis Unit in the Bowral Hospital), was President of the Strata Committee 2 months after moving into our current home, and only resigned very recently from his beloved East Bowral Community Centre Management Committee and as Treasurer of the RAR National Committee.  

Geoff also served on the Wingecarribee Council's Resource Recovery Centre and Business Units Advisory Committees.  He was a strong advocate for the Environment Levy and in 2020 was nominated to the Climate Advisory Panel.  He was a member and active contributor of the Greens for over 20 years. 

His medical history was complex to say the least, but we were always incredibly grateful to the family who donated their loved ones heart and kidney to Geoff in 2002, and which continued to tick along for 22 years!  The medical team at St.Vincents and his Doctors locally (Dr Pinkstone and Dr Perry) were absolutely the best.

He was cherished by his 3 children (Anthony, Simon & Sally) and my 2 children (James & Nigel) and their partners and 11 grandchildren.  Also his siblings John, Dave (dec'd), Steve, Ross and Margaret and their families.

Any donation you would like to make would be greatly appreciated and if you would like to share a message or memory of Geoff, I would love to read them.

Maree

Thank you to my Sponsors

$1,000

Anthony Byrne

Dedicated to Geoff who was an exceptional father. I think I got the best dad ever.

$527.50

Sally Byrne

In honour of dad, who made limitless lemonade from a lemon. Thank you for your generational gift. Sal

$527.50

Michael Pfahl

..a truly remarkable man!!!…part of a remarkable duo. ..what an enormous energy and spirit!!…truly enviable: Adieu Geoff and commiserations to you Maree and family.

$500

Simon Byrne

A fantastic man that we were so lucky to have. His positive impact was immense and he will be deeply missed.

$316.50

Z

Your an inspiration to all!

$263.75

Anonymous

A life well lived. We will remember the time shared so very recently with gratitude and love.

$263.75

Anonymous

What a privilege to have known Geoff. Always a smile on his face and always ready for a conversation. Our times together were fun and altogether too infrequent because of distance. The world is a better place because Geoff has graced the planet. One never felt his need for the amazing electric chair or red wheely walker was an issue for him. That is remarkable. Vale Geoff.

$263.75

Rural Australians For Refugees

Geoff joined the RAR National Committee as Treasurer at the 2020 AGM. Each year he stood again for this role. On the Committee, he always had good insights, clear perspective and wise counsel, as well as keeping our books in good order. All in the RAR family who knew Geoff are deeply saddened by his death. The National Committee pays tribute to Geoff for his years of work to help the RAR movement stay strong and united.

$263.75

The Bowral Doctor

Thank you Geoff for a life lived in service of others. The Southern Highlands is a better place for having you as part of our community.

$250

Maree Byrne

Just to see it all works!

$250

Norma Jackson

In Memory of Geoff Byrne, a gentlemen and a wonderful human.

$211

James, Mish, Callum And Henry

Geoff was a fantastic Pop for the boys and a great friend to us. We will always remember spending time with Geoff and Maree which almost always involved excellent food and wine. Nights playing cards and solving the problems of the world together. Geoff and Mum were such a great team. We truly appreciate the joy that you brought to each other and thank you for being so welcoming and inclusive of our family, and inviting us to share great times with yours. It's been a wonderful journey over the past nearly 30 years and we have enjoyed every moment. The memories and life lessons will last forever. Love from all of us xx

$211

Liz & Simon

Simon and I will always hold Geoff's twinkling eyes and kind smile dear. And then there's his sense of justice and perseverance - a hard act to follow but we will do our best!

$211

Christine Hurditch

Geoff was a truely special person who gave so much of his time to assisting in the betterment of the community and the world.. He will be remembered for his unwavering support of those who were in need.......and making this world a better place for all. My love to you Maree at this very sad time.

$211

Marg Carroll

The most appropriate word to describe my brother Geoff was humane. He was compassionate, kind, considerate, understanding, empathetic, tolerant, civilised, good, gentle, lenient, patient, forgiving, thoughtful, gracious, gentle friendly- and he had a great sense of humour. His strength under adversity in recent years was unbelievable. Geoff, you are an inspiration in so many ways and for so many reasons. What a man. Such wonderful memories. A privilege to be your sister. I’ll miss you forever, RIP Marg 💕

$211

Ross And Marlene Byrne

Words really can't say what an incredibly courageous and determined brother we were fortunate to have for so long. Always so positive, onward and upward your motto. Your dedication to what you believed in and your actions spoke louder than words. Thanks for the wonderful memories we shared, and looking forward to making more with Maree. Will miss you always. Love Ross and Marl

$211

Lesley

Although we only met Geoff in recent times I was so pleased to learn about his community service and activism with Maree in support of so many important causes. Thank you for being such a champion and soulmate for Maree

$211

Kerry And Philip

We were thankful to meet and talk with Geoff at the cousin’s get togethers. We can only sense how greatly he will be missed by Maree, his close family and friends. With fond memories, Kerry and Philip

$211

Jo And Andrew Beeston

Thinking of you and your family. Geoff lived a remarkable life.

$211

Marie Sellstrom And John Mccombe

We were privileged to call Geoff a friend and will treasure his memory as a humanitarian who lived his values.

$211

Zara

Dear Maree, May you and your dear ones remain blanketed in loving support as you adjust to Geoff’s departure. His determination, inspiration, compassion and advocacy within this world will be missed 🪔

$211

Anonymous

Memories are eternal!

$200

Anonymous

Thank you Geoff.

$200

Barbara And Lawrie

Thank you Maree for creating this opportunity to reflect on Geoff's enormous contribution to his far-reaching community. Our thoughts are with you and your families, and personally we will miss Geoff's friendship and sense of humour. Our love to you Maree.

$200

Erika Hughes

I've known Geoff for many years and he was such a lovely man.

$200

Maree T

Geoff was an admirable man. He was always generous, caring and prepared to make an active contribution to the groups and causes he supported. Geoff will be fondly remembered by all of us who had the good fortune to be touched by his quiet courage, ready humour and commitment to social justice.

$200

Pat Millar

In memory of an exceptional man. My very best wishes to Maree.

$158.25

Setsuko And Miki Takeda

Never forget your warm smile. Thank you so much for everything.

$158.25

Sarah Takeda-byrne

In honor of Geoff, who was the best grandfather I could ever ask for. Traveling together gave me some of my most precious memories. Thank you Geoff.

$158.25

Millie

For Geoff, an incredible grandpa, friend, and person. I’ll never forget your incredible smile, and will always admire your kindness towards others. Thank you Geoff, for everything.

$158.25

Jo & Peter

In memory of Geoff, whom we knew only too briefly as a warm and engaging "in-law", and treasured father, grandpa and husband, an amazing optimist, and a true inspiration in the face of adversity. Rest peacefully Geoff.

$150

Helen Mccue

Dear Maree and family, My sincere condolences to you all for the loss of dear Geoff. His quiet and humble contribution to our community in so many areas was quite extraordinary. He gentle presence every week at our RARsh vigil in Moss Vale was inspiring. He will be remembered as a "quiet achiever", a gentle, lovely, caring person. We will all miss him.

$150

Heather Champion

Geoff lived life with a glint in his eye. I will always be glad to have known him, and his clarity of insight, strength of conviction and dedication to quietly getting on with doing good work. But I think I'll remember him best for his deep love, admiration and support for you, Maree. He was a wonderful person who will be missed by many.

$105.50

Stefanie Hanlon And Family

Dear Maree and family, our heartfelt thoughts are with you all on the sad loss of Geoff. He is now at peace. Love Stef and Family

$105.50

Alec Michie

Geoff always seemed to have the energy for just one more thing. It's amazing one person could do so many things. He left everything better than he found it.

$105.50

Ric Einstein

$105.50

Bill And Toni Buykx

Geoff enriched our lives with his commitment to our community, his energy and common sense, and the example of his indomitable courage. A true friend and a top bloke.

$105.50

Noel Ferguson

I will remember Geoff as a very kind, sincere man with a keen sense of justice. I am in awe of the numerous ways in which he contributed to our local community as well as to the wider world. Geoff, to me, was someone who just got on and did things that made a difference. I am better for having known you, Geoff. Thank you!

$105.50

Trish Ide

In memory of dear Geoff. A man of enormous gifts, which he gave generously…courage, gentleness, true friendship, his valuable time and his love for Maree and his family.

$105.50

Thomas/susanna Goodman/pearson

Geoff we'll remember you for your gentleness and inspiring strength of character. And for all the good causes you dived into and gave assistance and valuable insights. We have no doubt you'll continue giving the angels help to fix this mess that we continue to create down here. RPI Brother.

$105.50

Annie Staff

Thank you for sharing this wonderful tribute to a remarkable human.

$105.50

Allen And June Broome

We appreciated Geoff’s considerate and thoughtful contributions in all things.

$105.50

Rosemary Heal

Dear Maree, our sympathy at this very sad time. Gary and I were saddened to learn of Geoff's death. May loving memories be a comfort and strength to you and all family. We always enjoyed a cheery chat with Geoff when at The Maples. His bright smile and good company will be missed. With fond wishes and condolences, Rosemary and Gary

$105.50

Gordon M

"Life well spent is long." Leonardo da Vinci and Geoff lived his life very well.

$105.50

Steve Byrne

So sorry for your loss Maree. What a wonderful couple you and Geoff were,very inspiring.Being in the west, I probably saw Geoff the least,but I will be eternally grateful you and Geoff. Made the trek over for my 60th and 70th birthday celebrations, they became festivals. Lots of Love and Best Wishes Maree/Steve

$105.50

Sarah And Geoff Cains

In memory of wonderful Geoff Byrne, with love from Sarah and Geoff

$105.50

Elizabeth Jones

What a truly mighty contribution Geoff gave to humanity. A life we’ll live d.

$105.50

Sarah

A thoughtful, clever, gentle man, full of kindness and humour. He was so collaborative and encouraging and yet strong in his opinions and willing to challenge the prevailing thinking with intelligent, practical wisdom where needed. Always working, supporting, giving. A beautiful partner to Maree and a community contributor I was proud to know. I will miss beautiful Geoff.

$105.50

Jan

Sad to say Goodbye, butGeoff is on his way to old friends who will give him a big welcome.

$105.50

Graeme Sanders

It was a privilege to have known Geoff. What an example he was to us all! The world is a poorer place with his passing.

$105.50

Daniel Byrne

A great man and uncle. Lots of great family memories with you uncle Geoff. Another Byrne I admire, respect and look up to. Cheers Dan

$105.50

Jean De Hosson

My sincere condolences to you Maree and family. Geoff was a very dear friend and an exceptional person of great integrity.

$105.50

Janet

So many great childhood memories of together time with Uncle Geoff and the family, admiration at his commitment to making a difference XX

$100

Katherine Stewart

Thankyou Maree for filling out my picture of Geoff. I had no idea the gentle and encouraging presence he was during our shared time on the Rural Australians for Rufugees national committee stretched so far. A life dedicated to so many worthy causes. Peace be with you in your grief.

$100

Jan Govett

Dear Maree, thank you for creating this opportunity to reflect on Geoff's passionate advocacy. My thoughts are with you and your family.

$100

Nigel Mcmahon

What can you say about Geoff? He was cheeky, kind, brave, supportive and just a little competitive which just about enabled him to keep up with Mum. He loved her wholeheartedly and supported her in all aspects of her life, helping to create a partnership that was both inspirational and heartwarming. Despite many health setbacks over the years, Geoff's positive outlook and lust for life was inherent. His welcoming nature extended to my family, embracing us as his own. His playful nature helped him bond with all his grandkids helping to create memories for us all. I loved our conversations that often went long into the night solving all the world's problems over a bottle or bottles of red. Geoff will be sorely missed by all.

$100

Beatrice Bowie

This is for a very worthwhile cause, in memory of a friend who was an exceptional man.

$100

Ian Bowie

Vale Geoff. Very simply, Geoff was one of the best human beings we have been privileged to have known.

$100

Anne Wilson

$88.62

Barbara And Phil Mckendry

We are deeply grateful to Geoff for leaving this world a better place for us all, and inspiring others to do so, thank you!

$88.62

Thida Nwe & Mohammed Arafat

Thank you for your love and kindness. We always pray for you and Maree. We miss you Grandpa Geoff.

$88.62

Paul Osborne

$60

Margaret, Jennifer And Elizabeth

With very fond memories of our cousin Geoff.

$52.75

Alex Pope

$52.75

Margie Flint

A much loved man, who gave so much love. An honour to have known you Geoff. Margie

$52.75

Louise Redmond

I worked with Geoff on the RAR National Committee and he was a lovely man, wonderful to work with. Thank you for sharing the details of his extensive community involvement, Maree.

$52.75

Benjamin Ng

Geoff did so much to make the Wingecarribee a better, more compassionate and brighter place. Vale.

$52.75

Shirley Thompson

In memory of dear Geoff, every blessing from my family to your family.

$52.75

Louise Egerton

Dear Maree and family I didn’t know Geoff very well but on meeting him it was immediately apparent here was a man that was dedicated to social justice. Steadfast and inspiring. He will be greatly missed.

$52.75

Annette Tseung

$52.75

Sally Waterford

In honour of Geoff Byrnes

$52.75

Rob Bearup

I know that Geoff Byrne was a supporter of Medicines Frontiers this is in memory of him

$52.75

Anonymous

$52.75

Steve Bruce

Dear Maree, So sorry to hear of your loss. I did not know Geoff well, but your words and those of your friends and family says it all. RIP dear Geoff.

$52.75

Zahir

Jeff had a remarkable soul. His passing has left an indelible void in our lives, but his legacy of kindness, hope, and unwavering support will forever remain etched in our memories. I first met Jeff on a fateful day at the airport back in 2013. His warm welcome to Australia was my first introduction to the kindness and generosity that defined him. From that moment on, I was privileged to witness his boundless compassion firsthand. Jeff, alongside his loving wife, became beacons of light during some of my darkest days as I navigated the challenges of migration and resettlement in Sydney. Their guidance, support, and unwavering faith in me helped me persevere through even the toughest of times. But Jeff's impact extended far beyond our personal encounters. He dedicated his life to helping individuals like me and tirelessly gave back to society. His vision for a world brimming with love, happiness, prosperity, and peace inspired us all to strive for better, to be better. Though he may no longer walk among us, his spirit will forever live on in the countless lives he touched and the countless hearts he uplifted. As we mourn the loss of Jeff, let us also celebrate the incredible life he lived and the profound difference he made in the world. May his legacy continue to inspire acts of kindness and compassion, and may his memory be a source of comfort and strength in the days ahead. Rest in peace, dear Jeff. You will be deeply missed, but your light will never fade. Zahir

$44.31

Naji And Jill Halabi

Geoff's inspiring presence and his warm, kind smile touched many. Every Saturday, as he rode his scooter, bravely standing against injustice, he spurred others to follow suit. His absence will be deeply felt.

$44.31

Rosalie Allen

Dear Maree Geoff was such a warm-hearted presence, a lovely man with a great sense of humour. My sincere condolences 💐

$42.20

Lynette Chamas

I last saw Geoff on the Sunday before he died, at the film for Gaza, when he cracked a joke and we had a laugh. He was such a warm, funny man, I knew him only a few months but he was one of those people you instantly like. I'm sorry he's gone. The world is poorer for his passing.

$42.20

Anonymous

A privilege to honour a remarkable man.

$31.65

Elena Hattersley

$31.65

Bakhit David

Mr. Geoff is wonderful and charming person with delightful smile. He is always great to be with and we'll always remember him as gentle and warm-hearted person. His commitment to advocating for him human rights is testimony to his contribute to society.

$31.65

Janet Clark

Dear Maree and Family, My sincere condolences on the passing of your beloved husband and father. May many happy memories help you in these days of sadness. Extending sympathy from the Hartzer Park Associates too. Jan Clark

$31.65

Julia Weisz

What an amazing man! And how stoic. I had no idea ! It is wonderful that you have had each other! My very best wishes Julia🥰

$31.65

Elena Barry

$31.65

Rose Cassar

I didn't have the pleasure of meeting your beloved Geoff. I sincerely thank him for the amazing work he did while he was on this side of the earth. Until you meet again, I wish you peace and strength Maree.

$31.65

Anonymous

$31.65

Zarhira Khinkhinthan

$10

Adrienne Bradney-smith

Farewell to a lovely, gentle man who set such a fine example to us all.