Unbelievably, another of our friends passed away last night, just a few days short of his 80th birthday. I say unbelievably because when we saw him for dinner last Thursday night he seemed well enough. I would have scoffed at the very idea that he might not have another good decade left on his dance card.
Professor Jim Hagan was a former Deputy Chancellor of Charles Sturt University 1990 – June 2001; former Chairman of the Board of Governors, Riverina College of Advanced Education 1976 – 1989; former Dean of the Faculty of Arts, University of Wollongong; and author of several major works on Australian History, amongst other things.
Rob went to work for him 18 years ago as a research assistant. The two became firm friends, as often seemed to happen with Jim and folks he worked with. Jim and his wife Lois have been regular features in our lives the whole 10 years Rob and I have been together.
This photo was taken a few years ago at The Hideaway restaurant, Thirroul, a timeless Italian establishment with an unchanging menu cooked by Mama and served by Michael to the accompaniment of piped accordion muzak. We’d meet there at 6pm every few weeks along with friends Marion and Hazel. Jim would bring beer he brewed himself. Lois would retrieve a pot of anchovies from her handbag at a strategic moment and tip them all over the garden salad. We’d always pour studiously over the menu then order the same stuff we always order. Lois and I would inevitably drink too much.
It was at the Hideaway that I became besotted with the SBS program Global Village. On a TV set high on the wall, that particular show always managed to attract my attention even with the sound off, with its fascinating snippets of exotic cultures faraway places. Many a fantasyesque detail, from water jousting to salt brick towers, has been snaffled from that show and integrated into my own storytelling.
I can’t believe he’s gone. Absolutely cannot believe it. But as Rob said, he had a good innings and died in the saddle. Researching material for a new book, loved by many and with all his faculties intact.
I’ll miss you, Jim. I really will. Goodnight.
9 Comments
My condolences
Damn. Thoughts to you and Rob.
My condolences on your loss.
I’m sorry, honey. *HUGS*
I’m sorry to hear about this, but “Researching material for a new book, loved by many and with all his faculties intact” is a damned good way to go. If only we all could claim this when we go.
Sorry to hear this, Cat. Shit, it’s been a year for you, ain’t it?
sure has
*hugs*
It sucks having to say this again, but *hugs*.