In the tight-knit community of The Gap, the late Dr Ian Marshall was known as a dedicated servant whose selfless actions left an indelible impact on the lives of many.
Recently laid to rest at St Paschal’s Church in Wavell Heights, Dr Marshall’s funeral brought together a multitude of mourners who spoke of his unwavering commitment and support for various causes.
One of his enduring commitments in life was to the RSL sub-branch at The Gap, the very place he called home for the majority of his life. Remarkably, he was actively seeking a piper for the Anzac Day ceremonies just days before his passing, a testament to his unwavering dedication to the community.
However, Dr Marshall’s contributions extended beyond his local community. In recognition of his exceptional service, Pope Benedict XVI honoured him in 2011 by naming him a Knight Commander with Star in the Pontifical Equestrian Order of St Gregory the Great. At his funeral, Archbishop Mark Coleridge acknowledged that few members in Australia had shown as much extraordinary service to the Order of Malta as Dr Marshall.
Danny Higgins, the Order of Malta’s hospitaller for the North Eastern Region (Queensland), fondly remembered Dr Marshall as a dear friend and an exceptional example of a Knight of Magistral Grace. He highlighted Dr Marshall’s leadership roles within the Order of Malta, including the former national president, former national hospitaller, and former Queensland chairman. Moreover, Dr Marshall played a pivotal role in expanding the Order’s presence in various Asia-Pacific nations.
His impact was not limited to the Order of Malta. As a family doctor for 46 years, he cared for thousands of families in Western Brisbane, forging deep connections with those in his care. His dedication extended to the Walton Bridge Medical Centre, where he was an early partner, and the University of Queensland, where he taught and trained future General Reserve officers for the Royal Australian Air Force.
Beyond medicine, Dr Marshall’s diverse interests showcased his passion for life. A lover of horses, he rode throughout his life and engaged in the world of thoroughbred racing as a member of the Bernborough Club.
He was an avid sailor, pilot, and collector of wine. Driven by a belief in service, his conservative political views centred around using institutions to better society rather than accruing power for a few.
Dr Marshall’s charitable work left a lasting legacy. His involvement with charity race meetings and Mt Olivet hospice led him to the Sisters of Charity, with whom he worked for over 20 years. This connection eventually led him to the Order of Malta, where his faith in Christ found expression through giving and service. The charity work also took him and his wife, Judith, to East Timor, where they helped build hospital and ambulance services.
In recognition of his outstanding contributions, Dr Marshall received numerous accolades throughout his lifetime, including being named a Member of the Order of Australia in 2013 for his services to rural education, medical care, and the beef industry.
Beyond his numerous accomplishments, those who knew Dr. Marshall remember him as a man of humour, ready to share a laugh with those around him. He possessed a keen interest in the lives of others, deeply caring for his family, his Scottish heritage, and the wider community.
Published 13-June-2023