Bela was
born in Hungary and had the good luck and foresight to emigrate from
there in 1938 when he arrived in Australia. With no money or prospects
here he turned his considerable energies to making himself a home in
Australia and worked tirelessly in his profession of dentistry to establish
himself here.
He returned
to Edinburgh to obtain further qualifications and on his return married
Eva with whom he shared his life and had two children Jerry and Judy.
He often
joked that dentistry was his profession and investment his hobby, and
he excelled at both. While he worked hard, he was always careful to
take the time to holiday with his family and to devote as much time
as possible to his children and friends.
Bela's
journey through life was not always smooth, but it was not in his nature
to let adversity slow him down.
He achieved
a reputation as a shrewd business man and excellent dentist, with many
of his clients using his services for decades. Even a short time before
his death he was actively treating patients, and keenly following the
financial news of the day. His lust for life was legendary, and he insisted
on attending his practice every day, both to treat patients and to keep
up to date on investments and financial affairs.
Even at
the end of his life, when increasing ill health forced him to choose
to have what was to prove a fatal procedure, he was ready to face the
risk if he could prolong his quality of life and continue with his pursuits.
He was
fortunate to have been loved by so many. His wife Eva and son Jerry
were at his side to the end and he drew great comfort from their support
and love.
Bela Schwartz
was an individual. He was unique in that he never looked back, he constantly
strove to look to the future and to new opportunities. Right to the
end he remained active and alert.
All our
lives will be the poorer for his passing, but the richer for having
had the privilege of knowing and loving him.
