The Rotary Club of Glenferrie lost a good friend in May, with the passing of Past President Bruce Gough. Bruce, an outstanding Rotarian, successful businessman and devoted family man was much loved by all who came into contact with him. He will be sadly missed.
Bruce was a raconteur with a life story to match his storytelling skills. He travelled to the United States as a young man in the 1950s, when international travel was less convenient and less common than it is today. In the United States he learned the motor retailing trade, where his easy charm, disarming honesty and genuine empathy for people made him an outstanding success. On his return to Australia he founded Gough Motors, leveraging the skills and networks he had garnered during his time in America.
Bruce was a stalwart of the Richmond Football Club, where he had many great friends. It was not uncommon for Bruce and his wife Elaine to entertain Richmond icons in his home; he was great friends with the likes of Richmond great Kevin Bartlett and Tommy Hafey. Bruce's contacts in the world of professional Australian Rules Football came in handy when he was responsible for securing the Coodabeens and others for a successful Boroondara Paper event during his active years in Rotary. Charter Member of the Rotary Club of Glenferrie, joining Rotary in 1975, Paul Harris Fellow with three sapphires and President of the Club in 1983-84, Bruce and his late wife Elaine were mentors to many in the club and friends to all.
Bruce had a way of making those in his presence feel valued. And that is a personal attribute that brings forth good things amongst people. Farewell Bruce. We will miss your easy, self-deprecating manner, and your entertaining chatter, but most of all we will miss you. Rest in Peace. Job Done.