Vale – Graeme Tutt

Vale Graeme Tutt

1945-2016

Dear Fellow Guild Members,

It is with deep sadness that I have to inform you of the passing of our President and friend Graeme Tutt.

Graeme passed away suddenly at his home in Blackburn on Wednesday January 27.  His fellow Members who attended the informal dinner and get together at the Tivoli Club on the Wednesday evening were concerned by his absence and thereafter sought to follow up with him discovering this sad news.

Graeme had been a staunch member of the Guild and was always keen to meet Members and follow up on anything Rover. He and Alan Travell would on occasion drive considerable distances to follow up on leads, something I think he quite enjoyed. This enthusiasm and dedication to the Guild ultimately led to him being nominated for the position of Club President, one that thankfully he accepted and managed exceptionally well. Graeme brought a wealth of knowledge and well-honed organisational skills, something that the Club and committee Members all benefited from. The Clubs increasing membership and international website interest is a testament to his leadership skills, enthusiasm, drive and dedication, all of which will be sadly missed.

Graeme’s greatest contribution to the Guild, was one in which he put in many hours every day, in researching, writing and editing The Norseman. It was considered by many to be an exceptional publication. It was seen as and often remarked that this was a feather in his cap. He was very proud of each edition and couldn’t wait to produce the next one. He loved being the Editor. Graeme would love to be remembered for the quality of the publication. In Rover matters, I think Graeme would agree that this was his finest contribution to the marque that he felt such passion for – Rover.

My wife, Deb, and I were fortunate to have a visit from Graeme and Alan last weekend. They popped in on their way back from a Rover trip to one of our Members in New Gisborne. We all caught up at our property in Gisborne and had a very pleasant afternoon over coffee and muffins. Graeme, Alan and myself went for a short drive in Graeme’s 95 to check out how it was going. As with all his vehicles it was all in good order and drove beautifully. It was a pleasure to catch up with a fellow Member that was so passionate about the Rover marque, a very genuine and caring man with a great sense of humour.

One of Graeme’s objectives within the Club, was to get Members with their cars to events and was always very proactive in this regard, He would often remind Members of upcoming events and where possible to come in their Rovers.

Our Leongatha weekend was one of these organised gatherings that was a great outing for all attending. Graeme was extremely pleased, to see such a good turnout of vehicles, together with their owners and made mention of this on many occasions.

With this in mind, and as a show of respect, it would be a nice gesture for those wishing to attend the funeral to try and make it in their Rovers. I personally will be coming in my 90 and think Graeme would have approved.

The funeral will be taking place on Tuesday 9^th at 10.00 at Le Pine Funerals 1096 Burwood Highway Ferntree Gully 3156

I would like to pass on my deepest sympathy to Graeme’s Family at this sad time but can assure them that his legacy will live on within the Guild.

 

Your Sincerely

Peter Sullivan

Vice President.