This week Wollondilly said goodbye to two of these special people who in different ways have left a great legacy to our shire - Fred Pickering and Liz Vincent.

When I attended Fred's funeral in Douglas Park on Wednesday (see page 9), it was obvious he was a respected and loved member of the community.

Stories of his dedication and commitment to helping others were inspiring.

His wife Robyn told me Fred's motives were always altruistic, doing it for the good of the community and the children.

As the rain poured down, one resident whispered in my ear: ``Fred was such a nice man. Even when he was sick he showed my five-year-old son how to throw the discus properly.''

He did so much to give the children of Douglas Park great opportunities and encouragement that there's talk of naming the oval after him.

I never met Fred but it was very sad to watch the hearse taking him round the oval for the final time.

Another sad story this week was the death of local historian Liz Vincent.

Most would have seen her at some stage, scaring the pants off tourists on her late-night ghost tours in Picton.

She was a lovely lady with a great sense of humour.

Last year Liz brought her grandchildren to our office for a photo to promote her kid's ghost tours.

I remember it well because it was the first time I had seen the softer side of Liz, as she interacted with her granddaughter Lara.

It was obvious by the hugs and smiles that they adored each other and I could tell Liz was very proud of her family.

From that point I saw Liz as much more than a local historian. She was also the epitome of a loving grandma.

As the community mourns the loss of Fred and Liz it's important to keep their families in our thoughts and prayers. It will be they who find it hardest to say goodbye.

mfenech@fairfaxmedi a.com.au