The following messages of condolence and symbols
have been added in memory of Robert.

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3 7

Messages Placed

Edward Youngs on 15 March, 2024 at 1:04pm

Robert was a lovely Man a gentle caring person. I am grateful for having known a little about him. He had a beautiful singing voice. He had a heart for the lost.Prayers for those who needed them.He loved Jesus I mention this last because it was the most important thing. The last will be first and the first will be last.Into the hands of blessed Yeshua are you now.

Robert & Miriam Morgan on 4 February, 2024 at 12:28am

Thank you so much for letting us be part of Robert's memorial service,you all done Robert so proud. We are so glad to have spent the weekend with you both when you visited Wales. Sending you all our love and prayers love always Miriam and Robert xx

John & Sylvia Nowlan on 31 January, 2024 at 6:37pm

The Beautifully prepared service we were able to view via the Web.
The character & spirit of Robert came through in each member of the family who spoke.
Their son Paul conveyed through fresh song the journey with his father, in honesty.
Robert was the person God chose to introduce my wife & I to the reality of the Holy Spirit.
Forever he will live in our hearts.
Now he rests in the presence of His Lord & Saviour.
The photo attached is when Robert visited us as young missionary family in Calgary, Alberta. Canada 🇨🇦

Jenny Edwards and Family on 26 January, 2024 at 2:37pm

Dear Carol and Family
A beautiful service for Robert who was a man of many talents. I have happy memories of you all coming to BBQ at our place and the love and joy shared. You Carol holding meetings in our home and my Mum coming to the Lord. God bless and surround you with His love. Jenny

Pam and Graham Keen on 25 January, 2024 at 7:37pm

Dear Carol and family,
Thank you for the thanksgiving service you put together -and especially for including Robert singing the Blessing song. That always brought tears to our eyes.
When we moved from NSW and came to Blackburn Baptist it was Robert who made us welcome with his genuine love and care, and a twinkle in his eyes. He also showed that same love and care to us and wisdom when we had marriage problems.
We thank God for this special man.
With love, and prayers as you learn to walk these days without him.

Owen Jenkin on 25 January, 2024 at 12:03pm

Thank you for the inspiring memorial service we attended for Robert. He was such an a great brother in Christ and encourager to Pili and myself.
We send our love, blessings and God's comfort to you Carol and all the family.
Owen

Kevin, Elena, Josiah, Eli Buchan on 24 January, 2024 at 9:01pm

Each week at St Stephen's, it was a pleasure to sit back from Robert & Carol, and observe them being so committed and available, even in their later years. Sometimes just the observation of other Godly Saints is all that's needed to encourage and stimulate us to keep fighting the good fight.

In Him

Kevin, Elena, Josiah & Eli Buchan

Julia Fuller on 24 January, 2024 at 6:52pm

Thinking of you all, god bless

Robert Sherwin on 24 January, 2024 at 9:51am

May Sandy and I just tell you all of the blessing you each were to all of us there. You all shared exceptionally, a beautiful tribute to Robert. Tears of joy would be flowing down Robert"s face.

Bill Brown on 24 January, 2024 at 9:44am

Dear Carol, Sian and Wes, and Paul,
It was a privilege to be at the service for Robert on Monday. You all and your family all honoured him beautifully.
I thank God for Robert and the way he encouraged me, cheered me on and modelled what it means to know and worship God.
Praying God’s comfort and care for you today.
Warm regards
Bill

Robert Sherwin on 24 January, 2024 at 9:40am

It was such a privilege to be present at this Thanksgiving service. We were blessed immensely.
What a beautiful picture of a life well lived, God honouring in every way. It has flowed through from generation to generation, a beautiful picture of God's faithfulness.
Paul you blessed us 'real good' with yourself and your wonderful authentic tribute to your father. Your father would be overwhelmed and so thankful for you.
May the loving Father comfort you all and fill you with with His love.

Ian & Beth Smith on 23 January, 2024 at 11:11pm

It was with mixed emotions that we heard the news of Robert’s passing to be with his Lord. Sad he was leaving us, but happy for him to be at peace with Jesus. Have great memories of his 7 years service as Pastor (with Carol) of Belgrave South Baptist Church and of their stay with us while his house was rebuilt. He helped BSBC to develop a new mission statement of ‘Living and Sharing God’s love’, something he modelled by example. He was the most authentic Christian we have ever met who always tried to engage with those he came in contact with to help them feel loved (even the politically incorrect term ‘checkout chicks’ he met in the supermarket). He will be greatly missed but now singing in heaven.

Andy & Treena Denny on 23 January, 2024 at 6:45pm

Robert's ministry was one of the key reasons I (Andy) decided to call Crossway home as a young follower of Jesus. As I got to know him I felt so embraced and affirmed by him, and so encouraged in my faith. I received so much from him as the love of God flowed through him and into my life. His life and ministry has had a lasting impact in both my, and Treena's, lives and we're both so thankful that we knew him and got to serve with him.
Blessings to Carol, Sian, Paul and family.

Naomi Gruzevskis on 23 January, 2024 at 3:53pm

Such a beautiful service!! You are all to be commended for your bravery, beautiful singing Sian, wonderful song Paul (gosh you are so talented!) and incredibly precious stories and eulogies! As a newbie to Crossway, I’ll never forget Robert’s hilarious skit as a homeboy, nailing the oversized basketball shorts, Tshirt and backwards cap and performing a perfect backwards moonwalk! I had precious few interactions with Robert and just as Sian said, he made you feel so special and I loved him dearly. I was in absolute awe of the godly gentleman he was and my heart breaks with you. Our love and prayers to you all.

Kirstie & Greg Calder on 22 January, 2024 at 10:27pm

Dear Carol, Sian and Paul,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Robert was a great man who had such a positive impact on so many of us at Blackburn Baptist. I have many fond memories of him during that time and I always remember how kind, warm and welcoming he was.
I was disappointed that I was not able to make it to the memorial service today due to covid. The whole service was a great tribute and your song was very special Paul. Thinking of you at this time.
Love from Greg & Kirstie

Nina & Ian Mann on 22 January, 2024 at 9:11pm

Dear Carol, Sian and Paul,
We consider it an honour to have met Robert. His gentleness, kind heartedness and encouraging ways touched us. His love for all those he met and his unwavering faith blessed so many and was such a living example of Christs love.
We are thinking of you at this difficult time of mixed emotions. Lots of love from all the Mann family.

Kailah Salinger on 22 January, 2024 at 7:27pm

Robert was a lovely patient of ours at rehab. More than that, he was a gentle spirited man and friend who, despite many challenges, was patient and understanding beyond our comprehension. I will never forget the day that he asked me "but do you know Jesus?" and when I replied "yes, very well!" He had the brightest smile I had ever seen on him. I am so grateful for his faithfulness and love in building up Christ's body!
To Paul, Sia^n and Carol, I have loved seeing your care for Robert over the past several months at rehab. We will miss you all dearly!

Bryan McKinnon on 22 January, 2024 at 6:58pm

Thank you for the memories. Robert.
Pastor Robert Coleman...
You showed me the way.
And I will always be forever grateful.

John and Yvonne Huynh on 22 January, 2024 at 6:41pm

Dear Carol, Paul and Sian,

It was a great privilege to have known Robert and to have him as part of our church family at St Stephen’s Presbyterian for the last few years. He was a pastor’s pastor. An older pastor to a younger one, with always words of encouragement, an example of humility and a beautiful focus on knowing the love of Jesus and loving Him. He will be missed. But there is the wonderful hope of the great reunion around our Lord in heaven one day.

Love, John and Yvonne

Joe & Angela Graham, James and Daniel on 22 January, 2024 at 6:26pm

Dear Carol, Sian, Paul & Family,
Our love to you all on the passing of Robert to Heaven.
What a Glorious Memorial Service we attended today at New Hope Baptist Church. Very uplifting and a Wonderful Testimony to Robert and you all as a family. Thankyou.

Valerie Joy Polgar on 22 January, 2024 at 5:45pm

The Colman Family have always hosted an excellent Function "Uncle Robert" would have enjoyed it but fortunately he had a prior engagement with Jesus, who will be walking with you all through this challenging time
God Bless you Carol and your Family
Valerie Joy Polgar

Liam Carfora on 22 January, 2024 at 5:35pm

Robert I was speechless when I heard the news you had left us to go to Heaven. I know you are in a better place now and your family today have shared magical and memorable stories which made me think about the fun times we had. Although you were in my life for a short period of time, you definitely made a massive positive impact. It was an honour to have you as a patient, always so happy, motivated and positive to do your exercises and of course full of jokes. I remember Paul telling me not to call you Bob, of course I wanted to test this out. Calling you Bob during one of the sessions you ignored me until I called you Rob, your response “I don’t know who this Bob is you are talking about, only Rob here”. Your family will miss you dearly, they all look up to you as the great man you are. RIP Robert <3

Lucinda Coleman on 22 January, 2024 at 5:11pm

I first met Robert & Carol when I was involved in dance ministry at Gateway Baptist Church. I was warmly invited into their home as part of their weekly creative ministries leaders' meetings, and loved their mentorship, leadership, teaching & pastoral care. I saw a model for arts leadership that was inclusive & collaborative with a focus on fostering artistic excellence, yet firmly within the realms of grace. Robert's ability to lead & perform as an act of worship modelled for so many emerging arts practitioners how to use their gifts & skills in both the industry & Church. Carol & Robert loved unconditionally & served faithfully. And they were honest about the difficulties they faced; their authenticity & humour offering insight into how best to serve God despite the challenges. I can't seem to disentangle Carol from Robert, but each shared their own wisdom with me, in ways that has shaped my practice across diverse sectors today. Later, when I was getting married, Carol & Robert flew from Melbourne to Ipswich to officiate the wedding ceremony. They shared communion (yes, red wine & fresh bread at 10am) with just David and me: our first act as a married couple. And then at the close of the ceremony, they stared fixedly into our eyes while Robert sang the Aaronic Blessing a cappella, which sent us on our way. We have been married nearly 30 years, and I believe the blessing of Robert, and the prayers of Carol & Robert (James 5:16), have been foundational for an enduring marriage - and has also helped me to not give up as a dancemaker, teacher, writer (even in the Church), but to hang in there with others (Phil.3:12). I hold the sadness of your absence, Robert, in the light of Love. All my love to you, Carol, and your beautiful loved ones.

Cheryl Macpherson on 22 January, 2024 at 3:56pm

Previous married name Gibbons
I came to Blackburn Bapt. In 1980
With my 3 children James Rachel & Sarah. Blessed & loved by Robert & Carol. Some Sunday nights Sarah would sit on Uncle Robert’s knee during the Service. They had a great influence on us all. Such wonderful memories & will always be grateful to God for 6 yrs we had there.
Love & God’s Blessing Carol Sian & Paul & families.

Archie Boyle on 22 January, 2024 at 3:43pm

I remember at Belgrave South Baptist Church. I was about to preach a message and was nervous.He said to me “you don’t need to be nervous, God already know what He wants you to say. And if you trust Him He will deliver His message through you.” Changed my life! 😃

Sharyn Ogden on 22 January, 2024 at 3:42pm

Carol Sian and Paul. Thank you for sharing the thanksgiving service and you Husband and Father with us. Robert was a true man of God. The love he had for you all spilled over to those he ministered to, not the least being me. While we grieve for his homegoing, we know that he is with his Lord, Saviour and Friend, Jesus. Thank you again for sharing this time with us. My love to you all.

Dave and Jill Price on 22 January, 2024 at 3:38pm

Robert was one of the kindest and most genuine people that we have known. When we first arrived as migrants to a new city and a new church it was Robert who often sought us out and really wanted to know how we were going. It helped so much to settle us in. His ministry over the years at BBC and Crossway impacted our whole family. We loved baby dedications when he would sing a blessing over the child. And in later years just a chance meeting at the shops was always a warm and uplifting encounter. What a gap he will leave! Sending our love and sincere condolences to you all, Dave and Jill.

Kim McKeown on 22 January, 2024 at 3:36pm

What a joy it was to work alongside Robert (and Carol) at EBCC.
Teaching and reminding me to love God and love others, but in only a Robert way of doing.
Just be yourself - but for God.
Always the entertainer. Always with a smile. Always and forever grateful.

MARGARET GRAY on 22 January, 2024 at 3:33pm

Robert was a very welcoming and caring pastor . When we came to Belgrave South Baptist Church still grieving a major Church split , Robert showed great kindness to us, welcoming us and making us feel welcome in the fellowship. I have many fond memories of Robert and Carol, and Paul ( at carols at Convention) and I pray for the Holy Spirit's comfort and enabling for Carol, Sian and Paul, and all of their families as they learn to live without Robert's physical presence amongst them. The Lord bless you and keep you, the Lord lift up the light of His countenance upon and give you peace

Danny and Beth Hunt on 22 January, 2024 at 1:57pm

We have so many wonderful memories of Robert over the years. His encouragement, his leading of worship, his sense of humour, his perseverance, his wisdom, his partnership. Carol, Paul, Sian and families, you are especially in our thoughts at this time.

Archie Boyle on 22 January, 2024 at 1:55pm

Thank you for all you taught me ❤️ so much and just knowing you were there if I needed you made my life easier. To Carol and the familylove and prayers from the Boyle’s. Wish I could be there but had to go to Canada with Duncan as you know. Xxxxxxx

Peter Tribe and Katherine Tozer on 22 January, 2024 at 1:53pm

Robert Colman was our amazing pastor at Belgrave South Baptist in 2004/5 and he and Carol taught us so many things about God's grace and love for all. They visited us in New Zealand in 2006 where we had moved and we had a wonderful trip around South Island. He is in heaven singing praises to our Father.

Lindsay and Elsa McMillan on 22 January, 2024 at 1:27pm

Robert, a great man of God.
We well remember your first night with us at Church. From then on you embraced us, loved us and expected God to reach into our lives and touch us...and He did. . We were richly blessed by your ministry in so many ways.
To Carol and family, our thoughts and prayers are with you today.

Catherine & John Smith on 22 January, 2024 at 1:20pm

Dear Carol and family,
Please accept our sincere sympathy for your loss. Robert was certainly a huge presence on stage when we first went to Crossway over 20 years ago. We now live in Berwick and attend church at Beaconsfield. Robert has certainly left a huge legacy behind for all to appreciate. May he RIP until you meet him again in paradise.
Much love in Jesus Christ,
Cathy and John.

Rod and Sue Denton on 22 January, 2024 at 12:46pm

Dear Carol and family
We have you in our hearts today and will be joining with you online for Robert's service. So many memories have come flooding back to us of the special times we spent with you and Robert and Sian and Paul. From my(Rod) first day at Blackburn in 1980 I had an office next to Robert and from that day on his presence was such a blessing in my life in so many ways. God bless you and your family today Carol. We will be very much with you in Spirit and heart. We give thanks to our Lord for the wonderful privilege it was to share our lives and ministry with you and Robert. Sarah and Kathryn were deeply saddened by the passing of their Uncle Robert.
Much love from Rod and Sue Denton

Don and Helen Skilbeck, Joanne, Donita. on 22 January, 2024 at 11:54am

Dear Carol and family,
we were all deeply saddened at the news of dear Robert's passing. We all have so many treasured memories of Carol and Robert's ministry and friendship to us all. Robert's warm nature, caring ministry, wonderful voice and sincere love for Jesus, for Carol, and others, and his cheeky and fun loving sense of humor.
our hearts go out to you Carol, Sian, Paul and your families at this time. May Gods love enfold, embrace and carry you in the days ahead.

Jenny Barham on 22 January, 2024 at 11:24am

SO many memories of Robert! Robert and Carol. I'm immensely grateful for knowing Robert and Carol, both individually, and together they have been significant to me. Much loved. Their wisdom and guidance, example and friendship. A little Robert story. When Robert and Carol lived in Brisbane, one summer Carol traveled back to Melbourne, I think Sian had birthed one of her four children and Carol went to help Sian settle in. My husband Tim, and I spent an evening with Robert at their home and Robert was proudly showing off, and sharing, a box of mangoes he'd bought cheap because they were past their best and he'd worked out how lovely these mangoes were with vanilla ice cream. To this day every time I eat a mango I think of Robert. And I too stew past their best mangoes to have with vanilla ice cream.
Thank you for your wise words, your kindnesses, your constant example of how to be intentional in following Jesus, in being in a marriage, of pastoring those in your care. You are dear to me and much loved. I look forward to sharing stewed mango and vanilla ice cream in eternity.

Jenny Barham on 22 January, 2024 at 11:06am

To Carol, Sian and Wesley, Paul, and each of the grandchildren. My heart goes out to each of you as you are missing this awesome man who was such a huge part of your lives. I'm thinking of you. Much love, Jenny

June KIRKPATRICK on 22 January, 2024 at 9:11am

Robert was a light in this dark world and will be sadly missed.
As well as his immense love of Jesus, as His disciple, Robert lived it out, not only by declaration but with his unfailing kindness, cheerfulness and encouragement.

Greg and Dawn Millsteed on 21 January, 2024 at 9:45pm

Robert and Carol have been regular attendees at our church over the last few years. Robert's faith was infectious and highly appreciated by our retired men's growth group. His ability to put our thoughts into prayer and his insight into the gospels added greatly to our meetings. Carol and Robert prayed regularly for our family. Robert's death is a major loss to us all and he will be remembered with much love.

KRYSTAL WALLIS (ROBINSON) on 21 January, 2024 at 9:20pm

Uncle Robert…. So many memories - from the moment we landed in Australia and you came and prayed with us as Kiron was unexplainably paralysed as a young child….through to drama groups, Heaven’s gates, allowing me to live in your home, you both throwing Rob and I an engagement part as we had no family in Brisbane, the kindness that exuded from you every time we saw you…. As a mother of young adults who tread the boards, i am in no doubt of what it cost you to leave the West End and follow God’s direction to move in to the ministry. And yet….because you did…. So many have been touched by God. May you now be able to tread the heavenly boards to your hearts content and we all look forward to jumping up there with you. Xx

Neil & Gwen Wetzig on 21 January, 2024 at 6:10pm

A friendship so sweet and very deep
A friendship that’s been an honour to keep.
Robert ministered to our family with such loving care -
Such a blessed friendship - so very rare.
‘behold the man’ …..
A man with such a beautiful voice
Who followed Gods call, that was his choice.
A man of encouragement, integrity and laughter,
An unforgettable man - one we could all take after.
A man of commitment, who loved Jesus his Saviour
Who honoured his God by his faithful behaviour
A man of leadership, humility and prayer -
An unforgettable man - now with Jesus….he’s there.

Philip and Judy Hunt on 21 January, 2024 at 7:30am

At a time when our experience of church was increasingly sterile, Robert said “Come and see”. That year at Blackburn Baptist proved rejuvenating for our faith and formative for future ministry in the wider world.

Jack Kamst on 18 January, 2024 at 5:14pm

My sincere condolences to Carol and family. Robert was a very kind and generous man. A special gift with his voice but always humble.

John and Mary Moon on 16 January, 2024 at 4:05pm

How sad to hear the passing of Robert, how difficult to adequately find the words to give thanks for the life of this wonderful Christian man.
The man that finally showed me the way, encouraged and guided me, to then have stood beside me in the waters of Baptism at BSBC. He changed my life that day. Mary and I have fond memories of times spent together with Robert and Carol.
Rest in peace dear friend. Our love to Carol and family

Terry and Lorraine Coleman on 15 January, 2024 at 8:40pm

What a blessing Robert has been throughout my life from youth to more recent times. We are grateful to have known this lovely man of God.
Our condolences to Carol and family.

Catherine Lyons on 15 January, 2024 at 8:34am

Ps. Robert was a caring and personable pastor. He had a true pastor's heart, interested in the people he served, and dedicated to build community. Into Your hands, we commend Ps. Robert's spirit, Oh Lord, and express gratitude for your servant.'
May Ps. Robert rest joyously with our Lord Jesus. Amen.

Jeannine Bettinson on 14 January, 2024 at 9:48pm

I am saddened to hear that Pastor Robert has passed away.
What a wonderfully gifted person! Such a safe 'place', his warm and vibrant heart lit by the Holy Spirit, eyes twinkling with the light and joy of Heaven as he shared about his Lord, a powerful preacher, a sincere and sold encourager for followers of Jesus. I am so grateful he was my pastor for a short time.
XXX My heart goes out to Carol, Sian, Paul and their families. XXX
May you all be comforted by our Loving Heavenly Father.

Connie and Bruce Millott on 14 January, 2024 at 8:31pm

We have many memories of Robert and Carol during our time at Blackburn Baptist during the Seventies and Eighties, His beautiful voice, his warm smile, His love for Jesus's shining out of his eyes, always a listening ear!
And of course those warm hugs he would give you.
2 Timothy 4:8.
Our Condolences to all the family.

Trevor & Kathleen Edwards on 14 January, 2024 at 5:49pm

We would like to convey our deepest sympathy and love to Carol, Sian and Paul and their families in the passing of such a wonderful man in Robert Colman. When I think of Robert, I am taken to a place of grace and kindness. This is what I experienced when working with Robert as a colleague. I look forward to hearing his wonderful dulcet tones in the heavenly choir.

Sue Williams on 14 January, 2024 at 11:52am

We are so saddened to hear of the passing of Robert- a true gentleman. Our thoughts and prayers are with you Carol and your family.
Sue and Hugh

Keith Ham on 14 January, 2024 at 11:11am

As a mentor par excellence, Robert played a highly significant role in my spiritual journey as a young man in my late twenties, when he and Carol opened their home regularly over the course of a year or more, as I and five or six other young men shared a weekly meal with Robert, as he generously poured his life experience of walking with Jesus into ours. He introduced to me, and modeled for me, what it is to live a life in and by the power of the Holy Spirit, and the lessons learned from that precious time have remained with me, and sustained me for a lifetime. Robert’s example of godly, servant hearted, and passionate ministry became a benchmark for me as I later embarked on full time pastoral ministry myself, and I will be forever grateful for his impact in my life over the past forty years. He will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him, but he leaves an undying legacy in the lives of the countless people he inspired and influenced for the Kingdom in the course of a life well lived for the glory of God.

Jan & Phil Buccilli on 13 January, 2024 at 1:59pm

We have wonderful memories of this lovely Christian gentleman. Dinners of 8, lots of laughter, but I will miss most is our chats in the front garden that always included a hug. We feel the pain for the loss of a friend but we celebrate an amazing life and know we will meet again .. love to Carol & all the family.

Phil Strahan on 13 January, 2024 at 10:50am

I give thanks to God for Robert’s life. I’m so grateful to him for faithfully praying for me through my youth and early 20’€™s. He always encouraged me, cared for my wellbeing and helped grow in me a deep love for Jesus. Robert, you are now in the arms of your beloved Saviour and because of your faithfulness we too will join you in due course. Until then…

Christopher Foley on 13 January, 2024 at 2:28am

It’s easy to impress, but to stay thoroughly impressive for nearly 50 years is an accolade reserved for a precious few. I first met Robert when I was asked to join the cast of “The Witness”. I remember thinking how boring, being in a musical for 3 months. Little did I know that I would meet a bunch of people who would become lifelong friends. Whilst Randall and I were busy causing mayhem and just having fun. Robert was the older brother who brought some decorum to the show. The more I got to know Robert and Carol and their little tackers Paul and Sian, the more I came to love and respect this man who despite his enormous talent, still exuded a quiet confidence, grace and dignity that made everyone love him. Don’t get me wrong. He was a genuine superstar. Stylish and handsome, but not the least bit conceited. Now I’m not saying that Robert could walk on water (but I reckon he would have gone close) 😂 Robert, thank you for devoting your life to the one who did walk on water. Thank you for being his hands and feet as you served others, and thank you for your fine example. Well done good and faithful servant. Love and miss you. Till we meet again. CF

Angela Laino on 13 January, 2024 at 2:00am

I was devastated to hear of Robert’s passing. He helped me get through a very traumatic time in my life. I will never forget the great support and comfort that he gave to me. Forever grateful.
xxx

Dawn Gale on 12 January, 2024 at 9:01pm

We were saddened to hear the news that Robert has passed away. I’m sure the angels in Heaven will be rejoicing.
He was such an inspirational man on stage and a great teacher of the Arts and all of his talents were devoted to Jesus name.
Our sympathy to Carol and family, especially Sian at this time of sadness, grief and adjustment.

Doug McComiskey on 12 January, 2024 at 3:45pm

It was my privilege to know Robert as a friend through our bible study. To all in the study and to me his love for Jesus was inspiring and his love for Carol and family was a model to emulate. He loved God’s Word and offered very helpful insights as we studied the bible each week. I will miss him greatly. But I know that he has “won the prize” through Jesus and is now in the very presence of his Saviour.

Carol, we all love you. I know you will keep looking to Jesus in this difficult time.

Sally and Ian Turner on 12 January, 2024 at 3:07pm

Our love and thoughts to you all at this very sad time, may God bless and comfort you. Robert was held in very high esteem by family and friends and will be sadly missed.

Janet Woodlock (White) on 12 January, 2024 at 2:39pm

Robert was someone who always shone with the presence of Jesus, in his singing, speaking, pastoral care, family life... just in being who he was. I know he will be shining with Jesus now! Condolences to his family who will miss him so much.

Nick Krins on 12 January, 2024 at 1:39pm

Oh , the passing of a dear friend, such pain for, but also JOY knowing our 'brother ' Robert , lives on , singing in Glory , for his Blessed Saviour, Jesus Christ 💞
Robert and Carol.. True friends. Love and condolences, Nick, ( Tina -dec. also in Glory) and Chris Krins. Blessings to Carol and the family. 🙏🙏💞

Dr Chee Keong Low on 12 January, 2024 at 1:27pm

Robert has been a genuine friend and intercessor.
He has fought the good fight and finish the race. Now awaits the master's reward.
See you in good time , bye for now mate.

Paul Rayside on 12 January, 2024 at 12:25pm

I've had been blessed so many times by Robert- for twenty something years as my pastor and ten plus years as a colleague. The first time was as a broken and lost young man who did not know God. For weeks I had been repeating this phrase in my head about this friend I recently got to know- "there's something special in his life and I just have to have it". Then on my second time at church with my friend Robert was speaking and pointed in my direction and uttered the exact words. I felt like the heavens opened up and God was speaking directly to me. Robert explained that the "something special" in my friends life was Jesus Christ. I gave my life to Christ. That was forty-two years ago. Robert was always seeking to be sensitive to the leading of the Spirit of God. I grieve his loss but rejoice that he is with our precious Saviour and Lord.

Geraldine Paterson (Nee Murray) on 12 January, 2024 at 12:01pm

Robert Colman! What an inspiration and model for a what a true Christian is! Whenever I saw him he was always positive, caring, fun, lively, warm and intelligent. I appreciated his time and talent and the way he modeled being a devoted disciple of Christ in the arts field, and learned a lot about what a godly father and husband should look like just by watching him. He will always be treasured in our hearts and because of this he will be greatly missed, even though we know he is in a better place. Much love to Carol and the whole Colman/Rutherford clan.

Andrea North on 12 January, 2024 at 10:54am

An extraordinary encourager!
He blessed my growing up years, my whole family and my husband and his family, simply by being his wonderful self.
I don’t think I will ever experience someone like him again, who would stand bang in front of you, up close, and stare deep into your eyes with so much warmth, interest and care. And with that smile that shone sunbeams straight into your heart.
Sigh.
Another gem has crossed over making heaven even more of a desirable place to greatly look forward to. The Lord is continuing to bless him and keep him.

Adam & Janna Becker on 11 January, 2024 at 9:04pm

In a world full of change, Robert stands in our hearts as one who stayed the same in the best possible way. His love for people was such as I have rarely seen, and it always made me feel 10 feet tall that he knew my name. I treasure the moments he would take my face in his hands and say ‘Bless you’ each time we met.
Robert always found time to stop and genuinely listen, always always had a word of encouragement and a smile that lit up the room. And always, he was a man who drew in people by radiating Jesus. Carol, you and Robert showed me what real romance looks like, and lived out the faithfulness of our God.
My son still goes to sleep listening to Robert sing ‘The Lord Bless You’, and while I love the truth that he is now singing mighty praises directly to his Father, the world feels a little less warm, a little less stable now.
Praise God that those of us lucky enough to have been blessed by Robert can continue his legacy in our own lives.
Well done, good and faithful servant. Our prayers are with your family.

Robert and Barbara Boucher on 11 January, 2024 at 8:53pm

Dear Carol and families, we are so thankful for your love, care, and inspiration for many years from 1976 in your small group and at Blackburn Baptist Church. We send our love and sympathy to you. Robert was the major influence in encouraging us after a time of desert experience, and guiding us through the Holy Spirit into a deeper relationship with Jesus. Robert's influence has been an ongoing blessing to our family and we cherish wonderful memories. We love you Robert. Rest in the loving arms of Jesus your Lord.

Jennifer Farmer on 11 January, 2024 at 6:50pm

My thoughts are with you at this sad time. Robert was a man of wisdom, a Godly man who touched lives, a story, a song, his wicked sense of humour and his smile always touched my heart. I enjoyed my time working with him at Crossway and seeing how he mentored those around him. He had a heart to see people grow in their faith using all the gifts God gave him. It is now time to rest Robert as our Lord whispers to you well done my good and faithful son.

Judy and Murray Charlesworth on 11 January, 2024 at 6:36pm

Robert Colman we will always remember you and your caring and loving heart for people.., we all felt truly loved and appreciated by you any time we would see you and your arms were always outstretched to each and every one of us who knew you… this world has lost a magnificent man but Heaven has gained a beautiful soul living forever with no more tears sickness or pain… hallelujah for the Cross and Resurrection of Jesus Christ whom you shared with everyone everywhere… enjoy your forever days til we see you again …
love from Judy and Murray xx

Ian Geyer on 11 January, 2024 at 6:22pm

I was blessed to have Margaret “Colman”, and Robert, not only as my cousins, but also as my Godparents. I have very fond childhood memories of Robert sending me birthday cards, with rows of sixpences stickytaped inside. Sadly, he abruptly stopped that tradition about 55 years ago, and refused to recommence it, even through the recession of the 1980s :) . Robert consistently walked his talk, and was a great ambassador for Jesus, and Christian living. Sincere condolences from the Geyer family to Robert’s family and friends.

Andrew Fisher on 11 January, 2024 at 6:04pm

Robert, was an incredible man of God that I had the privilege of being mentored by, working for and working with. I’m certain he will be singing with the angels and leading the choir. He’s legacy will live on in his kids and family and those lives he touched for God’s glory.

Rosie Sutton Pryor on 11 January, 2024 at 3:35pm

Robert, my mentor and encourager, my solid rock in times of struggles, my beautiful friend who always pointed me to Jesus and His truths. I thank God that you contributed to my life, and our family’s life! You dedicated our firstborn to the Lord - Joseph, in 2004. We sang together and prayed together, your living example of Jesus in the world will remain in my heart. Love to Carol and the family.

Bert Guy on 11 January, 2024 at 3:26pm

A dear and much loved friend has been taken from us. A great man of God whose example will live on in the lives of his family, friends, and those who enjoyed the privilege of spending time with this wonderful man.
He is safe now, out of pain and singing up a storm with other Saints in Glory..
I will miss his cheeky sense of humour,
his daily desire to live for Christ and his gift of being able to make you feel loved and important at all times.

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