In late 1991, Rob Fisher joined the Findhorn Foundation, as part of the Community Apprenticeship Program. I remember seeing him around Cluny at that time, always cheerful and ready for whatever might be asked of him.

I had only just joined the Foundation myself, and we became friends. I have a scientific and mathematical background myself and I found I could speak Rob’s language of computers and mechanical things very easily, and we found a bond in this. I also could relate to his dry sense of humour which was razor sharp.

He was an intelligent man, but blessed with a great gentleness and an inquisitive nature. He could put his logical faculties to work on any problem and find a solution – Cluny benefitted from this as he solved endless maintenance challenges in the years ahead.

And he was an avid car tinkerer – taking on the most complex tasks of repair such as changing a gearbox. He would rarely if ever become daunted or downhearted, it just wasn’t his way. There was always a ‘can do’ attitude and a smile.

I learnt so much from Rob in those days. (And I had a lot to learn being only 22). I had an old yellow 1970s VW camper that I learnt to fix with hours of his help, and in the maintenance department I got a solid grounding in plumbing and electrics from him. And all of this while laughing at his many humorous remarks.

I also look back to many wonderful outings in the local area with him and other friends, and the many good conversations around the dining table at Cluny.

Rob was, by nature, a helpful and willing soul, never refusing a request, never thinking of himself first. The answer was always a resounding ‘YES’.

And he was always up for fun, – I could usually convince him to join me in a bit of innocent mischief.
If I have one complaint, it was that if I was sad or frustrated or angry, Rob wouldn’t really be able to relate, being such a level-headed and happy-go lucky soul. It frustrated me, but I envied him for it too…

I lost touch with Rob for a few years, but I know he was busy with all sorts of things including maintaining the IT systems for a large potato grower in Fochabers, as well as making a go of living in Denmark in a cohousing community with his then partner Gina.

In more recent times I reconnected with Rob just as I was returning to Cluny, and as he was leaving in 2013. Thankfully, he settled permanently in Forres, so we had many opportunities tore-kindle our old friendship. Sadly during this period I watched him begin to slowly deteriorate, but despite this he never seemed to lose his humour, his smile, and that twinkle in his eye which I so loved him for.

So Rob, as you go on your journey now, continue your laughter, your joy and your loving light-heartedness. Thank you for your friendship and blessings of Peace to you always.

by Scott Waldie