Flyer’s farewell: Bob Davis leaves St Mary’s Basilica on Tuesday.
ERIN PEARSON
A LAST round of applause marked the farewell for legendary Geelong footballer Bob Davis at his funeral in St Mary’s Basilica on Tuesday.
Almost 2000 mourners attended the public funeral for Davis who died last week aged 82.
Stars of sport and television attended to say goodbye to the man who played 189 VFL games for the Cats between 1948 and 1958 and coached the team to its 1963 premiership.
League Teams co-host Lou Richards, The Footy Show’s Sam Newman, Premier Ted Baillieu and match caller Rex Hunt joined the crowd.
Guy Davis remembered his father as funny, friendly and charming.
“We were lucky to have him as a father, a grandfather, a protector, a role model and a friend.
“He was my mate. We love you Bob and we will miss you so much.”
Former Cats president Frank Costa said Davis “brought hope” with him to Kardinia Park.
Davis, who leaves behind wife Margaret, five children and five grandchildren, also left a lasting impression on Australian television.
Channel Seven’s Sandy Roberts told the Independent his former colleague could “light up any room”.
“You always walked away happier after meeting Bob,” he said.
Collingwood president Eddie Maguire remembered Davis as a role model.
“Bob was a tremendous entertainer and I took his spirit into my career after watching him for years,” Maguire told the Independent.
“He made us all fall in love with football. He led my career.”
Father Kevin Dillon urged mourners to learn from the Geelong Flyer as his coffin left the basilica draped in white lilies.
“We can pay the ultimate tribute by leaving here today a little less selfish, a little more resilient and look at life with a bit of humour,” Fr Dillon said.
“Bob knew the power of nice.”
