Cherbourg mourns the loss of artist Rory Gene Combo

The tragic death of a much loved young man, widely recognised for his incredible paintings across the Burnett, Sunshine Coast and Brisbane, has devastated the South Burnett region.

The Combo family said Rory Gene Combo's memory will be forever cherished.

Tributes have flowed for a much loved and talented Cherbourg artist who tragically died at the age of 43, whilst in a diabetic coma.

Rory Gene Combo died on February 25 and spent his final moments surrounded by his family and loved ones in Cherbourg.

The former Cherbourg Aboriginal Shire Council park ranger was a loving brother to Caroline, Jack, Samuel, Fiona, Joseph, Michelle and Joyce and a caring father to Jakarli.

He began his schooling at Cherbourg State School before relocating to Kuraby in Brisbane at 12 years of age to attend Woodridge High school.

In Kuraby he lived with his brother and sister-in-law, Sam and Carmel Combo-Fisher, and their children.

The Combo-Fisher family said Rory had a very special bond with his family in Kuraby.

“Rory always referred to Kuraby as home and would visit often,” the Combo-Fisher family said.

“He would always be doing silly things.

“Rory spent his last Christmas at Kuraby with the family, a memory we will cherish forever.”

Artwork by Rory Gene Combo.

In his 20s Mr Combo relocated to Mooloolaba on the Sunshine Coast where he lived and worked up until the weeks before his death.

Mr Combo was a passionate artist who painted during most of his spare time.

His sister Caroline Combo said his love for painting allowed him to be creative.

“Most of his artwork he took time on it, as he had much pride with it,” Ms Combo said.

“Rory’s artwork began to be displayed in many job network and medical centers, both locally and in the wider communities.”

His family described the birth of his daughter in 2006 as the most important day of his life.

“Rory was very proud of Jakarli’s achievements both in schooling and sports,” the Combo-Fisher family said.

“He was also a father figure to all his nieces and nephews whom he was proud of.”

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Mr Combo’s niece Shanayah Combo said, “I’m still in shock and lost of words that you are no longer here with us”.

“I’m going to miss all our phone calls and memories together, the bond you had with us all was beyond amazing,” she said.

Mr Combo’s second passion was his love for cars, in particular his Holden SS Commodore.

Caroline Combo said he first learned to drive with his big brother Jack.

“When Jack asked Rory if he wanted to have a drive at his car, with much anticipation, Rory jumped in with Jack,” Ms Combo said.

“They didn’t far get far as Rory was only asked to reverse out to the gate and back into the garage.”

The Combo family would like to thank the Sunshine Coast University Hospital for all their help with Mr Combo’s care, as well as all of their friends and family who have sent their condolences and kindness.

Mr Combo’s funeral service will be held on Friday, March 10 at 10.30am at AIM Church, Barambah Ave, Cherbourg.

Originally published as Cherbourg mourns the loss of artist Rory Gene Combo