Commemorative roses have been planted in Aberdeen’s Dangar Park Rose Garden in memory of three of the town’s hard-working elder statesmen.
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Ken Newell, Roy Staddon and Fred Day were long-time residents of Aberdeen and all played an active role in the town.
Mr Newell passed away in May last year, aged 85; Mr Staddon died last December, aged 93; and veteran Fred Day passed away two months ago; also aged 93.
Gary ‘Doc’ Milton said the contribution of the men was worthy of acknowledgement.
“Fred had taken the salute at our Dawn Service since 2005 and was a veteran himself.
“Ken Newell came to the school for Anzac services since 2005 and Roy Staddon was instrumental in keeping Anzac Day going in Aberdeen,” Mr Milton said.
Fred Day was scheduled to be the Distinguished Guest at Aberdeen’s 2015 Centenary of Anzac Dawn Service, but his health deteriorated and he was hospitalised.
Mr Day passed away a week later.
Roy Staddon was also an active member of the Aberdeen Men’s Shed, an expert carpenter and undertook many TAFE courses.
Ken Newell was well-known for his beautiful voice, singing at his local church every week and at other community events in Aberdeen for many decades.
Mr Newell was also less well-known for his wonderful bush poetry.
Marion Wilkins, a Red Cross member, said she and the rest of the group thought it fitting to have a plaque engraved to remind those who stopped in the park of the mens’ contribution to the town they loved.
“The three men were very involved with Anzac Day every year.
“Above all, we have lost three fine gentlemen who deserve to be remembered,” she said.