Passing of Fr Bob

The family of Rev Father Robert J Maguire (Fr Bob) wish to advise that Fr Bob age 88 passed away at Cabrini Hospital this morning.

Fr Bob was a dear and much loved member of our family and will be sorely missed for his energy and good humour.  His physical and mental health had been deteriorating for some time but his preference was always to help others rather than consider his own situation.

Fr Bob was not just a much loved family member but was loved by all Australians for what he stood for.  He has fought bravely for the underprivileged and homeless all his life. He represented the highest of principles, and he fought to actively live those principles.

Despite his high profile in the media, he was always on the job, especially for the disadvantaged families and individuals for whom he had great love and compassion.  He wanted nobody to be left behind and always saw and believed in the good in people, but he knew that there were many whom he referred to as the unloved and unlovely.  These were his real passion.

The last few months have been very difficult for both the family and for those around Fr Bob as we managed his declining health.  We thank all the medical staff who have attended him in recent months and express our gratitude to them for their work and devotion.

We ask that our privacy be respected at this difficult time.

The family will make appropriate funeral arrangements in due course.

The Maguire Family