Bela Schwartz

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.