July2014_Samford Historical Museum: In Memory of Phil McCann

Sadly I must inform you of the sudden and sad passing of one of our very popular members, Phil McCann.  

His death was attributed to a fall from a ladder at his home at The Gap.  

He never regained consciousness and passed away peacefully on Sunday 8th June.

 

He will be greatly missed by all his co-workers at the museum, especially the painting squad – known as the “A Team”.  Phil and his painting mates are responsible for all the brightly coloured machinery painted in colours of their era and which also includes the main building.

Phil was a very dedicated educator for the museum as far as orating his knowledge and love of all items mechanical.  He was in his element and especially loved it when school children visited as part of their education, comparing items of the past eras with present day merchandise.  His realistic cow bellow which loudly escaped from behind the cow bails while the children were deeply involved and concentrating on the milking segment.  Also watching and supervising them playing with toys of yesteryear or climbing over one of our very well maintained old bright red tractors.  Phil was thoroughly relaxed and always willing to answer questions asked by the excited school children, he had a special rapport with his students of the day and nothing was ever too much trouble.

Phil had a cheeky disposition, very loveable nature, a good ear, fabulous sense of humour.  A real genuine larrikin, gentleman, good friend to all, always had a smile on his face and devilish blue eyes.

For two years he was the face behind the very many  interesting articles he wrote.  Explaining our adventures at the museum, paying homage to our members as well as describing the benefits of visiting Samford Museum and informing the public of our upcoming and rather special large events, such as Australia Day and Anzac Day.  These stories were written to be published in The Village Pump, The Dayboro Grapevine The Westerner and the Hills Echo.  Phil informed our readers of the many different types of groups we have the privilege of entertaining.  They range from school aged children right up to older members of the many clubs in Brisbane and the surrounding areas.

A memorial service was held at St Marks Church, The Gap on Wednesday 11th June in a very crowded church where family and friends and forty members representing the Samford Historical Museum celebrated Phil’s life.  His funeral was held in Armidale NSW.  Our sympathy we send to his family.

R.I.P dear friend, you will surely be missed.  Until we meet again.