VALE IAN ROSE. A WONDERFUL FRIEND

Ian exemplified the Four-Way Test of Rotary in every aspect of his life.  A kind, generous, hard-working, and humorous man of absolute integrity, he dedicated his life to his family, his community and his God.

Ian was born in Wallaroo in 1948 and grew up on the family farm at Cunliffe, south of Kadina.  His own farm, where he lived after marrying Margaret, was at Kulpara.  He moved to Mount Barker when he purchased a retail nursery, through which he continued his passion for agriculture and cultivation.

Ian was married to Margaret for 54 years. His three children, Jason, Sarah, and Lachlan, plus his six grandchildren, Jed, Noah, Henry, Oscar, Reuben, and Scarlett, were his great joy.  The memories he left and the example he set will be a part of them forever.

Ian joined the Rotary Club of Mount Barker in 1994 and served in almost every leadership position.  He was President in 2003/04 and again in 2013/14.  He was President-elect for 2025/26.  Rotary recognised his character and achievements by awarding him five Paul Harris Fellows.

Ian was a man of great humility who did not seek attention, yet nearly four hundred people attended his funeral in Mount Barker.  Many others from around the state, the nation and the world watched the service on a livestream.  Community leaders and politicians, as well as neighbors and individuals he touched through his church and community involvement, came to honor his life and show love and support to his family.

Our club is grieving Ian's sudden loss deeply.  His wonderful humor, commitment to service, and kindness set him apart. He loved Rotary, and we loved him in return. Every one of us has many special memories from the times we shared with Ian in service to community.  There will always be a special place reserved for Ian at the table of friendship that underpins everything we do in Rotary.