Robert Frank Norman (Bob) Sammes

Sending my condolences to the family of Mr Sammes. He was my history teacher at Bayfield, a subject that I loved. I remember fondly his fascinating 'museum' in the classroom.

I knew Bob in my time as a player and committee member at Northern AFC, and as a member of the organising committee for the club’s 125th Jubilee in 2013. At the time of the Jubilee, I saw and admired Bob’s enduring loyalty to his original club, Māori Hill AFC, which amalgamated with Northern in 1974. I discovered that Bob had known my Grandfather, who’d been a president of Maori Hill AFC, and enjoyed learning, from Bob, about that time in the club’s history. I also very much appreciated Bob’s generosity in giving me a copy of the history he wrote of Maori Hill AFC, titled ‘Brave Little Club’. Bob was a wonderful club member and he will be very missed.

Bob was such a valuable member of the footballing community and will be missed and remembered in equal measure. As Patron to Northern AFC he was always giving of his time standing on the sideline for games at all levels. A quiet hello from him always inspired the players to try that little be harder and put on a good display for their Patron. He had an aura of confidence in you that encouraged and supported. So long Bob you will live on in our memories.

An Ode for Our South Island Uncle Though miles and mountains stood between us, your name was spoken in warm tones, woven into our family stories like threads in a treasured cloak. We did not know you closely, but we knew you mattered. You belonged to those we love, and so you belong to us too. To your whānau, we send our deepest aroha — may you find comfort in each other, and strength in the quiet echoes of a life lived well and remembered with love. Rest peacefully, Uncle. You are now part of the breeze, the tide, the stars, and the silence between. Love from Vicky McMillan, Tony McMillan, Jean McMillan, (children: Jonte, Rakena, Paris, Kauri, Tiiaho, grandchildren Kyron & Willow) xoxoxoxoxo

We will be thinking of you all today as we celebrate the life of my dear uncle. Such a sadness is always overwhelming. Be strong, take heart he is at rest and we are promised that one day we will be reunited. Let that thought give you all joy and let it uplift your spirit, and take away the tears of loss. Love you all! xoxo

My treasured memory was when we would talk on the phone and you would say 'oh my darling sister' and then you'd tell me that you love me. We were great friends when we were young, great friends when we were older. It's hard to say 'goodbye' to a friend. Love you always xoxo

I was very sad indeed to read that Bob Sammes had died. I remember him so well from being my history teacher at Bayfield High School in the 1960s. He was very enthusiastic too when I told him I intended studying History at university. He was a great teacher, one I have never forgotten Sending condolences to the family Lesley Day (née Dineen)

Dear Eunice I know you will have many precious memories to share with each other and when the sorrow subsides and life moves on you,may you all be able to share them with each other. Bob, a well repected gentleman as a teacher and member of many organisations he and you, Eunice were involved with especially dance. My condolences to you and the Sammes Family Bonnie Parker

Deepest sympathy and kind regards Colin Perriman South Dunedin Community Hall Trust

Dear Eunice and family So sad to read of Bob's death today. Bob's was a pleasure to work with during my time at Bayfield: dedicated, enthusiastic, and knowledgeable beyond belief. These talents were exemplified by his teaching of a young man in the Special Needs Unit that enabled the student, with the aid of a reader/writer, to pass School Certificate History. Quite a special teacher. My sincere condolences to you all. Ross Notman

Dear Eunice at this challenging time I offer positive thoughts and hugs to you and the family...so incredibly lucky to have had Bob in my life for so many informative years of the running of a football club from one life member and ex president to another RIP Bob you've well and truly earned the respect of many ⚽⚽⚽

My condolences to the Sammes family for Bob's passing. He was my history teacher at Bayfield High School. Bob was a very nice guy to know. As a true gentleman now at rest, but happy memories live on forever. Regards Geoffrey White