Obituary of Archdeacon John Richard Hart Fowler
The Venerable Dr John Richard Hart Fowler
17 June 1935 – 24 June 2025
Those who knew Archdeacon John Fowler will remember him as a genuine, kind, gentle, priest and scholar, with a ‘pun’ishing sense of humour.
It is therefore with profound sadness - albeit tinged with relief that his recent struggles are now over – that we announce his death at home in Perth on 24 June in his ninety-first year. He will be very deeply missed.
A beloved husband, best friend and mentor to Hilary for over 56 years, proud father of Ben (Ceridwen) and Tom (Monique), loving granddad to Graham Fowler and to Max and Will Bates. Uncle, cousin, and mentor to many, many others.
We all need a John Fowler to help us in this changing world. Neither hero, nor saint – his was a belief in careful planning, proper preparation, and never, never being in a hurry.
This modest, but engaging and gifted conversationalist lived for others, pushed comfort zones, led many to leap into the unknown and to believe in ‘self’ - the accompanying support and guidance he gave changed lives and inspired many.
Most recently he displayed remarkable courage and perseverance in the face of a complicated mix of irreversible physical challenges which brought about an horrendous fall, resulting in a surgery from which he never truly recovered. Lewy Body Dementia ensued.
To those who gave of themselves to brighten the days and lighten the load throughout this latter hard and unexpected 5 year journey, we offer our heartfelt gratitude – also for the support of ‘absent friends’, lives loved but seen no longer, with us in spirit.
He did not wish to have a funeral service. Instead, in true Fowler fashion, we will celebrate a life well-lived and a battle valiantly fought, sharing stories of this great man with food, drink and song in his home in Perth.
In lieu of flowers, please feel free to make a donation to the charity of your choice; spend some time with someone you love; or celebrate John in a way that feels right to you.
At some convenient time, please raise a ‘cuppa’ to ‘life’... friendship and hospitality ... not forgetting loyalty, confidentiality, direction(s) with large ‘maps’ and an unstoppable sense of adventure and wonder in roads less travelled.
A fitting memorial would be to simply take a walk, or to sit and be refreshed in leafy, green nature. Then consider planting, or gifting, life-giving native tree(s) – actions and symbols of hope, love and healing – a small start in making the world around us whole again. Every thing is wonder.
Above all, take comfort that John is in a place where he will experience love eternally. Before you sleep tonight, reassure a friend, relative, anyone – of your love and support for them.
Respecting John’s wishes, cremation has already taken place, and there will be no public service. His was a desire for a private affair with tree planting in celebration of his and others’ lives.
In lieu of flowers, focus your thoughts, please share any memories of John with others – these will never fade unless you let them.
