Sad news. Two of Howick’s finest gentlemen have died this week. Howick RSA life members respectively, Eric Wilson, a World War II veteran aged 103; Colin Smith, in his mid-80s, originally of Australia and long-time RSA volunteer executive committee member and vice-president.
It was always a pleasure to be with them, usually at the Wellington Street clubrooms on a bustling Friday night. There they’d be, at Eric’s table – Eric, Colin and Bev, Ben, Ray and Fay, Ken, Peter, and many more. The ladies at the raffle table just next door. They always had the welfare of the Howick RSA in mind. That was the subject of most of the conversation. Eric would say: “I’ll do anything for this club.” He did, in spades, forking out happily for raffles, and he loved his beers and his meals and the music, especially piano. He won his fair share of raffles that is for sure.
As most endure in their golden years, Eric had his health issues but soldiered on. He was a legend at age-carer Gulf Views in Selwyn Road, disciplined to his army core, carrying out his physical exercises every morning and always encouraging other residents and helping with tasks. He was amazing, so positive, and always looking forward, especially during this two-year Covid period.
He loved the company of people – family, of which there are many and they all loved him so much, with great respect. You saw it at each birthday.
We will all remember fondly, Eric, at 100, and in his late-90s, leading the Howick RSA parade at Anzac Day down off Stockade Hill, down Picton Street, and then right around the long block of the Howick Village back to the clubrooms. That was legendary.
Eric served as a driver in the New Zealand Army in the Second World War, seeing plenty of action and adventure in Greece, Crete (where he was on one of the last vessels to evacuate), Syria, Egypt, and Italy.
Colin Smith was a tireless worker for the Howick RSA, always determined and committed to seeing affairs were in order. Inspiring dedication.
He also had a very funny sense of humour, and a character in his delivery and laughter. We could be talking about the RSA and the world in general, and being a good Sydneysider, he’d also have one eye on the rugby league.
Colin ran the Howick RSA’s Poppy Day campaign with distinction. It’s a job requiring lots of hours of organisation and work and Colin always delivered a professional volunteer operation that generated considerable revenue for the RSA Welfare fund for veterans.
We will remember them. Lest we forget.
Eric Wilson and Colin Smith were Howick legends.
Our sincere condolences and love to Eric’s family – Noeleen Hegh and all the relatives; and to Bev Smith and her and Colin’s family. – PJ Taylor
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