Servant of community

OBITUARY
MORE than 200 people gathered last week to farewell a loving family man, friend and valued ex-serviceman.
Dandenong-Cranbourne RSL member Neville John Wilson died on 9 September, after being diagnosed with a brain tumour in March.
His wife and children remembered Mr Wilson as a caring man who loved spending time with his family, travelling and doing a range of hobbies, including woodworking and gardening.
Mr Wilson also dedicated much of his time to a number of organisations, including the fire brigade, Legacy, Scout lodge and the RSL.
“He loved his family and would do anything for us,” Mr Wilson’s daughter Sarah said.
“And Legacy and the RSL were important to him. At one stage, he was at the office every day – it was like a full-time job. He was very well-respected.”
President of Legacy South Eastern group Keith Bagley agreed.
“Neville was very proud of his time in Vietnam. He fully supported the Vietnamese Veterans Association,” Mr Bagley said.
“He did his very best for the widows of Legacy, put in many years as a secretary for the group and was a very tireless worker on the committee.
“He was a great friend, who will be sadly missed.”
Helping people was in Mr Wilson’s blood.
From a young age, Mr Wilson was passionate about serving his country.
He attended the Royal Military College from 1955 until 1958, serving in the Australian Regular Army until 1981.
There, Mr Wilson met his wife Jo, who was working as an army nurse.
He served a 12-month tour of duty in Vietnam in 1967-68. He retired with the rank of Major.
Principal units he served included the 3rd Royal Australian Regiment, 7th Royal Australian Regiment, Australian Army Training Team Vietnam and HQ N Command.
His determination and hard work led him to receive a number of significant awards, including the Australian Active Service Medal 1945-1975 with Clasp Vietnam, Infantry Combat Badge, United States of America Meritorious Unit Commendation and Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm Unit Citation.Mr Wilson leaves behind his wife, children Carolyn Ralph, Tony Wilson and Sarah Carmichael and seven grandchildren. Another grandchild is due next week.