NOEL O'Dwyer told mourners at the funeral of David Hyland yesterday that his vivid mate wouldn't be going in as the richest bloke in the cemetery.
Rather the "Hylo" they knew and loved would be leaving behind the type of wealth which could never be measured in its selfless contribution to others as a mentor and friend.
That was more like his game and its evidence was made stark by the throng which filled South Barwon Civic Centre in his honour.
Photos from the funeral. Click here.
They came from all corners and all walks to say goodbye. Mr O'Dwyer, eulogist and Newtown and Chilwell Football Club president, saluted with a simple, noble phrase: "He was a great bloke."
David Hyland, family man, sportsman and butcher, died at 49, five weeks after having suffered a burst aorta.
He was husband to Trish, father of Tay and Lewy and legend to a legion.
Colours were prominent amid the 900 or more mourners at his farewell. People had been urged to wear strips from the various sporting clubs Hylo had played with and inspired.
His brother Russell gave the roll call of his clubs across various codes, from artful forward flanker for his home town Barwon Heads footy club to talented tennis player, men's netballer and distinguished cricketer for Barwon Heads, Newtown and Chilwell, South Barwon, Newcomb, Torquay, Inverleigh and Murgheboluc. After having migrated to each club he always returned home to pad up for Barwon Heads.
Hylo crafted Barwon Heads' first A Grade century and was twice club champion. He played in three consecutive premierships with Torquay, including one as coach, and late in his career played alongside his sons.
Mr O'Dwyer and Paul Murdock acknowledged Hylo's influence on generations of young Newtown and Chilwell footballers.
"He not only spoke on the same level as us but most importantly he listened," 1991 under-18 premiership player Murdock said.
"He had that genuine tone which was easy to respect.
"The banner for the grand final said it all: Dave, this one's for you."
Eulogists said Hylo had ticked a lot of boxes during his life and five fighting weeks of convalescence.
Nothing had been left unsaid, he was back at home, he was with his family, out of pain and at peace.
The only one unticked was that at 49 he was way too young.
"David was certainly someone who gave, he gave to everyone and he gave often," his brother Russell said.
"Above all he was someone you just wanted to share time with."
Last Modified on 19/01/2011 10:43