Bob Franke a former South Sydney Junior in the 1960s with South Sydney Monarchs, Mascot, and Waterloo Waratahs passed away just before Christmas after a long illness. Bob also played in a winning Kensington CYO rugby league team. As well as being a very reliable and industrious front row forward, Bob was also a very good fast bowler, playing first grade club cricket with the then Sydney Club. Bob did his schooling at Marcellin College, Randwick and played in the First Thirteen there with such Souths and Easts luminaries as Garry Williams, Fred Jackson and Chris Armstrong.
Warren Thompson and Brian Finegan had visited Bob at his home in Randwick a few months ago as a MOL welfare visit and were impressed by his courage and humour in the face of his very serious illness.
Report of MOL visit below.
A visit to long time friend Bob Franke was recently arranged by Brian Finegan.
Bob and Brian attended Marcellin College in Randwick together where they played cricket and football in the same team. Bob was a rugged front row forward as well as a talented fast bowler. He went on to play first grade cricket for Sydney, whilst they also played rugby league for the strong Monarchs club in the South Sydney competition. Bob later played for Mascot and completed his football with the Waterloo Waratahs.
Despite having a tough time with his health of late, the visit was enjoyed by all as Brian, Bob and Warren Thompson swapped stories, a few good laughs and took comfort in each other’s company.
Bob is lovingly cared for by his charming wife, Rosemary, and the visitors were very pleased to meet one of Bob and Rosemary’s granddaughters, Jess, who called in while they were there.
Bob was presented with a Men of League Foundation polo shirt and cap. He was most appreciative of the visit, whilst Brian and Warren were honoured to spend time with him and his beautiful family.
Bob was always regarded by his many mates as a really good bloke.
He will be sadly missed by his devoted wife Rosemary his daughters and grandchildren.
R I P Bob.
Brian Finegan
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