Tribute to Eric Tompkins: 1933-2022

Tribute to Eric Tompkins: 1933-2022

As mourners at Eric's’ funeral watched a photo tribute on the big screen of his life’s journey, Shirley Bassey appropriately belted out “This is my Life.” And what an amazing life it was for this gentle and cherished man. Eric was born in the UK and at the age of four was running around in the playground of a kindergarten with a little girl named Hilda. Twelve years later Eric and Hilda bumped into other again at a Christmas Party and in 1955 the childhood sweethearts were married.

After sons Martyn and Keith arrived Eric and Hilda decided a better life could be had in Australia so they emigrated. They have always loved travelling and they visited Asia, New Zealand and the South Pacific. Eric bought a caravan and they travelled around Australia, meeting some wonderful like-minded people along the way.

Eric learnt how to play the piano and took up oil and water colour painting. He always excelled at sport, especially cricket. He started playing bowls at Joondalup, then moved to Quinns and in 2009 joined our Club. He was always a delight on the bowling green and will be missed by all his friends.

Unfortunately, Eric’s health began to deteriorate during the last 12 months and catching Covid put even more strain on his already damaged lungs. Eric touched the lives of so many people and, sadly, he passed away on 20 September.

– Jim Woodward