John Blay was a humble man who many will remember for his passion.
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Mr Blay died on December 18, aged 85, and is fondly remembered for his contributions to the Stawell community.
He is survived by his wife, Glenda Blay.
Mr Blay was a businessman in Stawell – owning the bottle recycling yard and Stawell Concrete – and was a proud supporter of the Stawell Hospital and Stawell Football Club.
It was at the club where Mr Blay’s passion for football and hard work combined.
He was president during the early 1970s when the clubhouse was built.
Mr Blay is acknowledged with a plaque and story in the clubrooms which outlines the construction of the building there today.
Stawell Football Club’s vice-president Debbie Bach said the club was appreciative of the contributions Mr Blay made during his involvement.
”We are very thankful for all of the hard work that was done by previous administrations, players, committee and supporters,” she said.
“Mr Blay was obviously a key player and driver of the project of the clubrooms but also a very generous member of the Stawell community – both financially and with his time.
“We understand the clubrooms we utilise today would not have happened without his influence.”
Murray Emerson paid tribute to his long-time friend’s passion for the Stawell community and was honoured to speak at his funeral on December 20.
“He was always upfront when the football club was searching for a coach or a person on the committee,” he said.
“Along with his friends, they were the heart and soul of the club.”
Although not a footballer himself, Mr Emerson recalls Mr Blay was an avid Geelong supporter.
“John and I met through football. He approached me when I came to town 50 years ago to play football,” he said.
“I thought he was coming to welcome me to the community but the bottom line was there to make sure I came to the footy club.”
Mr Emerson said he and Mr Blay had been friends since.
“John had a lot of mates. John was just a damn good bloke,” he said.
“The work that he has done over a long period of time within the community needs to be recognised.”
Mr Blay was also an integral supporter of the Stawell Regional Health Foundation and a trustee member.
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