Arch McKirdy
89 years
Resting peacefully
Beloved husband to Margaret (Moggy). Loving father to Megan, Grant, Mark and
John. Loved by his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Simplicity Funerals
9 Entries
September 21, 2013
Tony Ferguson
I remember watching Unncle Mac on Land of Make Believe on Satrday mornings.
Rest in peace and thank you for my wonderful childhood memories
September 15, 2013
Colin Bentley
I first started working with Arch as a 16 year old panel operator at 2UW in 1957. I used to spin his discs for "Relax with Me" and "Starlight Serenade".Arch became my musical mentor. Not only did he broaden my musical horizons, but taught me to love the music he played. This love of music stood me in good stead later in my carrer when programming music radio stations. The last time I saw Arch was at a reception for Acker Bilk at the Chevron in Sydney in the mid seventies. I am pleased to say I made contact again about a year ago, and after a couple of glasses of red, mid morning, listening to Frank or Ella, i would phone Arch and we would talk about music or just about the old days in radio. Oh how I will miss those phone calls. When my estranged brother Brian sent me the email about Archs' passing I am not too proud to say I shed a few tears. Moggie and family, I know you miss him but take solace in knowing that thousands share your loss. Arch "old chap" you gave more than you realise.
September 11, 2013
Ken and Anne McManus
All of us play a part in history. Most have a passive role as history happens around us. Some of us play an active, although peripheral part. But only a few make history. Arch McKirdy made history. As popular music changed its speed through the late 50's and early 60's from a declining 78rpm 3-minute cycle with Guy Mitchell, Doris Day and Marty Robbins to the 45rpm Top 40 with Elvis, The Beatles and the Stones, Arch was an intelligent, eloquent and elegant champion of 33rpm album jazz and jazz-influenced music that was a haven of ‘cool' in the revolution of rock'n'roll. Here was the only place you could hear Brubeck, Mulligan, Baker, Ella, Sarah, Julie London, Sinatra, Bennett, the MJQ, June Christy, Kenton and so many more. I can still remember the night Stan Kenton came in to the 2UW studios in Kent Street as Arch's guest after a concert at the Sydney Stadium. Arch introduced us to new expressions in jazz. I don't think I ever heard any other presenter play Ken Nordine's Word Jazz - not even Arch's similarly minded colleagues at the ABC, Eric Child and Kym Bonython. The ABC provided a perfect home for Arch and his musical passion that commercial radio couldn't and wouldn't support. Arch's commitment to quality jazz and contemporary music is a legacy that endures today with Digital ABC Jazz as one example for which we should all be thankful and grateful.
It was a privilege and a pleasure to know Arch then, for both me and my wife Anne, who was one of the very few whom he trusted to pick his music at 2UW when he occasionally, but rarely, ran out of time to do it himself. It is rewarding to enjoy his legacy now. And it is a deep regret that so much time has passed in between.
September 11, 2013
Margaret
Thank you all for remembering Arch. Our 51 years together were filled with music and much laughter and warmth.
September 8, 2013
I remember Arch from his 2UW days and I was a star struck 15 year old. I loved him singing "Autumn Leaves" and I had a huge crush on him. I have never forgotten him.
Liz Hatcher
September 3, 2013
go well Arch, loved working with you and Moggy on the garden. My thoughts with those you've left behind. Cheers ROB
September 1, 2013
Nadyat El Gawley
I learned so much from Arch, and remember how much he cared about what he was doing. I enjoyed every moment of my voice lessons with him at SBS radio. Not only for what he taught me, but for being in his company. He was warm, compassionate, funny and so encouraging. All my worries would melt away in those sessions. He was a generous mentor. I will miss you Arch, and won't forget you.
August 31, 2013
Patti Lucas
Vale Arch, the consummate broadcaster, trainer and all-round genuine good bloke.
As a former ABC broadcaster in Tasmania and Queensland I crossed paths with Arch on several occasions over many years.
His passion for communication and good broadcasting was infectious. Very many of us benefitted greatly from his experience and generosity.
He was and remains a legend in broadcasting.
August 30, 2013
George and Carole Crowley Your loss
Dear Margo , Megan and family,
It's been a long time since we've seen each other but we wanted you to know we share your loss.
Our thoughts. are with you.
Gèorge and Carole Crowley (9999 3676).
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