General News
20 July, 2026
Vale Earle Eldridge: Menswear pioneer leaves lasting legacy
Earle Eldridge, businessman, menswear retail pioneer, community leader, and beloved family man, passed away on June 26, three months before reaching his 100th birthday on September 23.
Earle Eldridge, businessman, menswear retail pioneer, community leader, and beloved family man, passed away on June 26, three months before reaching his 100th birthday on September 23.
Mr Eldridge’s long and dedicated career in the menswear retail industry began when he left school at 13, after attaining his merit certificate, and started work at Shepard’s Drapery Store in Horsham.
He moved to Bacchus Marsh and later Rochester, where he was the manager of Denny’s.
During World War II, he enlisted in the RAAF and served for two years, being discharged in 1946.
Mr Eldridge married Pearle Williamson of Stawell Road at the Horsham Methodist Church on October 9, 1948, and had two children: their son, Chris, in 1951, followed by their daughter, Sally, in 1953.
He moved back to Horsham and opened Earle Eldridge Store for Men in 1966.
Earle Eldridge Store for Men was revered across the region, located centrally at 68 Firebrace St.
The retail institution provided quality clothing and exceptional service that went above and beyond measure.
Mr Eldridge’s wife and daughter, Pearle and Sally, opened and ran a ladies' wear business, Miss Horsham, in 1973.
He sold the business in 1982 to his son-in-law, Peter McGuire, and retired to Coolum Beach, QLD.
In addition to being an esteemed businessman, Eldridge’s extensive list of contributions to the community includes serving on the Horsham City Council from 1968 to 1971 and running for council president in 1968.
Mr Eldridge was involved in the Horsham City Band for periods between 1937 and 1964, a member of the Rotary Club of Horsham for 11 years and president in 1967-1968, a committee member of the Wimmera Base Hospital, and an original member of the Sunshine Coast Concert Band for 20 years after retiring to Coolum Beach.
He loved lawn bowls, golf, and football, and was involved with these clubs in the Horsham and Coolum Beach areas.
Eldridge was a kind and lovely man and is reunited with his wife of 75 years, Pearle, daughter Sally, and son Christopher.