WAGGA’S Bob Bowcher was a passionate advocate for men’s health who worked to ensure the Riverina had the best services available.
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Mr Bowcher died on New Year’s Day after losing his 12-year battle with prostate cancer.
Before he was one Wagga’s most ardent health campaigners, Mr Bowcher had a successful career in business.
Born and bred in Wagga, Mr Bowcher started Wagga Business Machines, growing to include a branch office in Griffith. He was a foundation director of Profinance Group and on the board of Wagga Business Chamber.
Mr Bowcher had a history of community service as a South Wagga Apex and South Wagga Rotary member – in 2015 he was named a Paul Harris Fellow. He was a foundation member of the Wagga prostate cancer support group.
He was also a member of the Wagga Gliding Club and later became a flying instructor. Mr Bowcher was an active member of St Paul’s Anglican Church.
Wagga’s Biggest Ever Bloke’s Lunch organiser Graham Gorrel spoke of Mr Bowcher with admiration.
Mr Gorrel said he had not met anyone who pursued their case as strongly as Mr Bowcher.
“He was absolutely passionate and tenacious about it, anybody he thought would assist him, he would sit down and ask,” Mr Gorrel said.
“Not only was it his passion and tenacity, but he materially helped.
“He was an inspiring sort of character.”
Cootamundra’s prostate cancer support group chairman Eddy Williams described Mr Bowcher in a single word; passionate.
“He was a wonderful advocate for men with prostate cancer, he tried to get them the best services in the Murrumbidgee health district,” Mr Williams said.
“It’s going to be almost impossible to find a replacement for him.”
Mr Williams and Mr Bowcher worked to bring prostate biopsies to Wagga. They worked together again to bring a prostate cancer nurse to the Riverina.
“Despite a lot of other conflicting ideas, he was committed to the idea of a prostate cancer nurse,” Mr Williams said. Mr Bowcher’s funeral will be held at St Paul’s Church on Wednesday, January 13, from 11am.