Clubmates, family salute local footy legend Jason O’Brien who was “perfect husband, father”

Family members and clubmates of former Brigades president Jason O’Brien have shared tributes to a man they described as warm-hearted, humorous and a true leader after he succumbed to cancer last week.

Hawks president Craig Harrington said O’Brien, from whom he took over in 2019, had been a friend for 15 years, and described a man who loved a joke, yet stood firm in a tough job.

“He’s meant so much and affected so many people at the football club,” Harrington said. “His legacy, and what he’s done for the club, won’t just end.

“What he’s built will never be forgotten.

“He was charismatic and funny. He was a joker but such a strong leader as well.”

O’Brien lost his battle with brain cancer on August 14 aged 47.

O’Brien’s mother, Roslyn, paid tribute to her son. “Jason, you were so very special, you have been from the start,” she said.

“Before I held you in my arms, I held you in my heart as step by step you grew to be the beautiful man and father you were.”

His wife, Leanne, and children Telisha, Kiah and Jordan, described him as a perfect husband and much-loved dad.

“We think about you always,” they said.

“You have never been forgotten and you never will.

“We hold you close within our hearts.”

Harrington praised the “amazing support” from a footy community he described as a family, and said O’Brien’s influence could be seen in the club’s recent success. The Great Northern Football League said O’Brien was a “tireless worker” and advocate for football in the region and was highly respected.

O’Brien was a life member and a senior and junior president.

He also coached multiple grades.

A funeral to celebrate O’Brien’s life will be held at the Brigades oval on Friday at noon before family hold a private service. The Brigades “family” have been asked to wear their club shirts to honour O’Brien.