Des Meagher: a changed life

Blog Post Comments

Helen and Peter Forbes
([email protected]) Wed, 16 Mar 2011 20:51:34

Nan and family, Peter and I were just getting to know Des and feel very sorry that our relationships with him has been cut short. We were impressed by his very funny sense of humour, finding him to be great fun. Memorable moments for us were in Bali where we spent some time together and of course at Xmas singing carols at the North Fitzroy Star. Actually I don't think Des was doing too much singing instead making comments with Peter in the back row. We found the funeral service to be very uplifting with Fr Dillon doing a sterling job. He obviously cared about Des a great deal and clearly knew him well. We also loved the music which seemed to fit the mood very well. Jane and Jo - what a job you did under those difficult circumstances. What courage! what dignity! Des would have been proud. Love from us to you all Nan we hope to see you soon. Take care. Love Peter and Helen

Terry Gay
(
[email protected]) Thu, 10 Mar 2011 02:50:50

Dear Nan, my heart goes out to you and family. How our plans and dreams are changed so cruelly. Des was unique. His story telling,his views (name a subject!), his career as father-in-law(films are made with lesser men),his 1-2 step left foot pass X 30,his coaching jargon/rants.his rangy swimming style, the memories are endless Your grief must be huge. Barb(dec) and I loved him Terry 

Chris Harris
([email protected]) Thu, 10 Mar 2011 15:24:12

To the Meagher family
I am greatly saddened to hear the news of Des' passing. As all the tributes attest your husband, Dad, Grand Dad, Father in law was a wonderful man. I played under his tutelage at Whitefriars FC. I loved him as a coach and would do anything for him. The last time I saw him was at Box Hill hospital 4 years ago where I was with my wife and son attending a specialist appointment regarding a pretty serious condition my son had. We had a conversation that put us more at ease with the situation we found ourselves and this conversation probably represents the millions of terrific words that have sprung from his mouth that have assisted others over the years. He will be sadly missed by those that have had the great pleasure to meet him.

Josephine Foo
(no email) Fri, 11 Mar 2011 00:53:39

Dear Nan and family,
My deepest condolences to you and your family. You may not know me, as I have worked with Des for only 2 years out of his 40-year service at BHH. Despite this short duration, he has left a big impression on me and has gained my utmost respect. He was someone to whom I looked up to (literally and metaphorically :) ). He will be deeply missed. "Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord and let perpetual light shine upon him. May his soul rest in peace. Amen"

Paula Lee
(
[email protected]) Fri, 11 Mar 2011 03:53:27

I ask myself........
Why did I not make more of an effort to see him? Why were my phone calls few and far between? Why did i take so long to reply my emails? Why will I never get a reply from the email I sent him on his birthday? How can someone who I have know for 10 years impact and influence me so much?

I remember him by.........
"Yes my dear?" he said as I walked into his office
"You twit!" he shouted when I did something wrong
"Twinkle Toes" he called me when he forgot my name
"Oscar" he named my son while I was still deciding
"Wrong number" he said to me when I called his home with an asian accent.

Thank you for sharing your life with us Mr Meagher!

Thank you Nan for sharing your soul mate! I pray that you remember the happy times, treasure the special moments and continue to live out the life he would want you to live!

Our love, respect and prayers go out to you and your family.

Love,
Paula Kenny and Marcus (Oscar)

Gwen Crimmins
(
[email protected]) Fri, 11 Mar 2011 14:40:46

Hi Nan and girls (and extended families),

When I think of Des I think of the fun times we had at the footy Club, the social events were our priorities.

Peter and Des shared so many milestones together. They both started their footy careers in 1966 at Hawthorn. Had their testimonials together. You were engaged a week before us, and we were married in a day of each other. We even had babies on the same night - visitors could see us both at the same time (we had rooms next to each other) what a hoot! Peter and Des had to get permission from the hospital to hold their babies for a photograph in "The Sun", how times have changed.

Thank goodness Des broke the trend and lived 34 years longer than Peter.

On a positive note he could see his children grow up, share many happy times with his grandchildren and many years with beautiful Nan. His passing is still too soon, he looked like he would be with us forever.

I feel for you Nan, I will always be there for you. Hopefully the beautiful memories you have of Des, your wonderful family, and many, many caring friends will give you strength in the months and years ahead.

Love Gwen x

Ellie Vanden Boom
(no email) Sat, 12 Mar 2011 14:46:24

Papa I never wanted you to leave me, I always could feal your love inside me. But I've always wanted to tell you somthing, God wanted your spirt to rise up into heaven, he chose you.He was a wounderful person.I CAN TELL YOU THAT I COULD ALWAYS COUNT ON DES!!!!!!

bobkeddie
([email protected]) Sun, 13 Mar 2011 23:47:45

Dearest Nan

There have been so many genuine words spoken of Des but I really want you to seek the strength from all your mates as well as Des. We have always been a tight bunch since '71 with such happy reunions and antics from the clowns. Des remains one of the unique characters who made any connection a pleasure if not a query. Your natural response in embracing Des's friends stands as a beacon to the meaning of true friendship. We will all salute our mate tomorrow and stand as one in admiration of your extradordinary gift as a wife, mother and friend.
Those who have met you and understand your sacrifices will continue to envy your spirit.
I am privileged to have played and coached with Des. He set targets which many found too high, but he never lost sight of the value of the word 'team'.
See you tomorrow.
Draw strength from those who surround you and your family.

Bob

Kimberley Meagher
([email protected]) Tue, 15 Mar 2011 04:05:07

And so we said goodnight, but not goodbye today.

Despite the difficulties, despite the tears, we laughed, we remembered, we rejoiced in what was truly an inspirational life. Des clearly had an impact on all of us, in both small and big ways. His way was quiet, modest and humble. And yet, he was a leader, someone we could go to for guidance. That guidance is still there, his words still linger, his opinion is still known.

Even though we knew him, we now know him so much better because we have all come together to share our stories, through the blog, through the eulogy, through the pictures, and through the memories.

What will be my enduring memory? Des once said when we were down at the beach, that he would go to bed early so he could get up early, ready to start the new day. I remember being amazed by this philosophy, so simple, and so true. Since then I've always pictured Des bounding out bed ready to start the new day. My other enduring memory is Des's commitment to family. He just had so much time for us, he made time for us, and he made the most of his time with us. I hope I can do that too. Even if it is just a fraction of what Des was like, I'll be remembering and trying to make the most of my time with family and loved ones, just like my Uncle Des.


Melissa Baird
(
[email protected]) Wed, 16 Mar 2011 04:18:02

I felt so priviledged to be present at Dessy's funeral yesterday. It was my birthday, but I was happy to spend the day farewelling such a wonderful man. Dessy we loved you and your beautiful family: Nanny, Jo, Lisa, Jane and Emma. We have many, many happy memories of our families together and I remember babysitting your gorgeous little girls, now x4 gorgeous big girls when you lived in Station Street, Box Hill. I loved having a chat with you when I worked in the Orthopaedic ward at BHH. You were truly an inspiration. Thank you for being so kind to my Dad, David, recently. He loved those bike rides up the hills around Inverloch. He looked forward to your chats and laughter each week. It will not be the same without you. Farewell beautiful Dessy, you will never be forgotten. With Love to you Nan and the girls. Melissa Baird (nee Menzies) xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

Max Goonan
(
[email protected]) Mon, 14 Mar 2011 22:32:02

Nan and the girls,

Thinking of you all.
Not only was Des one of Mum and Dad's best friends but he was an amazing and constant presence to be around.
So sorry to lose someone as great as Des.

Today was a wonderful tribute!
Well done to you all.

Max Goonan
Louise Powell
([email protected]) Tue, 08 Mar 2011 16:13:05

My heart is heaving reading such sad news. the thoughts and prayers of all the Ryan's are with you all. Love Louise 

Jill & Mark Duffy
([email protected]) Tue, 08 Mar 2011 16:26:20

All our love goes out to Jane & Ben, Nan and all the Meagher family. We are so saddened to read of Des' passing.
All our Love,
Mark and Jill & the extended Duffy family x 

Carlo Corallo
(no email) Tue, 08 Mar 2011 16:34:38

We are so sorry .
Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.
A truly great man , and we are privileged to have had him as friend.
Love , Corallo's

Sam and Cliff Clifford
(no email) Tue, 08 Mar 2011 16:41:13

So shocked that a man of such integrity, wit and love for his family can have passed on. I guess God only takes the best! Much love to Nan, Jo, Lise, Jane, Em and all the hubbies and grandkids. May the memories live on - Sam, Cliff, Ollie and Macey x

Claire Clifford 'Farty'
(no email) Tue, 08 Mar 2011 16:43:40

We are truly shattered. I just can't believe it. All those wonderful memories over so many years will always remain. Des, you will be so sadly missed but always in our hearts. Thinking of you all and wish I was there. All our love, hugs and kisses
The Hart and Clifford families xx

Lisa Canty
([email protected]) Tue, 08 Mar 2011 16:44:54

Dear Jane and Ben, Our heart goes out to you and your family during this sad and challenging time. Lucy and I will do all we can to support Elle and Ruby here at school.
With love and support
Lisa Canty and Lucy Gorman

Sean Ralphsmith
(
[email protected]) Tue, 08 Mar 2011 16:46:49

to the Meagher family
My thoughts are with you at this very sad time. Des was a great man who taught many young men some great lessons, including myself. Many sessions in the 80s being trained hard, taught, yelled at or even chasing him up those hills.
All great memories. Des was a man held in the highest regard by all that knew him and enormously respected by those privileged enough to have been coached by him.
Sincerely, Sean Ralphsmith.

Hills
([email protected]) Tue, 08 Mar 2011 17:08:16

Dear Jo, Nan, Jane, Lisa & Em,
We are so very sad to hear of Des's passing. We talked about how recently we watched him on the beach at Inverloch with his girls and grandkids. Such a wonderful, supportive, gentle man who will remain strong in your memories. Love from the Hills (Jo, Mick, Tom & Ben)

Jacqui
(no email) Tue, 08 Mar 2011 17:10:41

My beautiful friend Em, I’m am so so sad to hear that Des has passed, what a truly wonderful man he was to have produced all you amazing girls.There no words that will make you stop hurting but know you have your friend to lean on at his terrible time. My thoughts are also with Nan & the girls. Love you loads Em xxxx

Kylie Broadfoot
(no email) Tue, 08 Mar 2011 17:47:03

Dear Nan, Jo, Lisa, Jane and Emma. We are so sad to hear of Des' passing. We are privileged to have known such a good man. Remember the good times - I know there were many. Thinking of you all. Love Kylie, Stuart, James and Josie. Xx 

Julie Coleman (Tudor)
([email protected]) Tue, 08 Mar 2011 17:56:21

To all the Meagher family, thinking of you all at this awful time. May the wonderful memories of a wonderful man help give you the strength you need to get through this.
Love to you all.

Love Julie & the Tudor family.xx

marilla greenhalgh
(no email) Tue, 08 Mar 2011 18:12:48

My heart is breaking for you all. What a man, what a family. Love you all. His body is at rest now, his spirit free.

Love Marilla

Grainne Doyle
([email protected]) Tue, 08 Mar 2011 18:15:27

Our thoughts and prayers are with you Jane, Ben,Elle, Ruby and Gus... Ar dheis De go raibh a anam (just a bit of Irish!!!) May he rest in peace.
Grainne,Phelim,Blaithin and Fionn

Paul Greenhalgh
(no email) Tue, 08 Mar 2011 18:19:03

Des was a great man and I am profoundly saddened to hear this news. Our hearts ache with you as we come to terms with this loss.
He will be remembered as a kind and gentle man who always made me feel welcome in your home.
To the five beautiful women who he adored I send all my love and thoughts to you and shed a tear thinking about Des leaving us at such a young age. XXXXX

Norm & Shirley Lord
Tue, 08 Mar 2011 18:37:02

Our Deepest Sympathy to all of the Meagher Family. We Extremely saddened to hear of Des's passing.


Tamara Hawken Ryan
([email protected]) Tue, 08 Mar 2011 18:47:43

I am so sad to hear your news.Please know that I am thinking of you all from a long way away.
Such a great man, and a true friend to my Dad.
Lots of love
Tamara xx

Gary Buckenara
(no email) Tue, 08 Mar 2011 18:59:09

To Nan and all the Meagher family we are so sorry to hear this very sad news!! A great man and true Hawthorn person who will be missed by all. Thinking of you all at this time!
Gary and Annette Buckenara

Russell Morris (Fly)
(
[email protected]) Tue, 08 Mar 2011 19:08:56

Des was my first coach at Hawthorn. He took us for training runs around Wattle Park - we all hated him - he used to beat us on the runs. He used to tell us that if he beat us, we didn't have a chance of making the senior team. He was like that. Very straight forward. Des taught me the Hawthorn way in my first year in the seconds - a very dry and funny guy - with a hard but fair attitude. Wow - if it happens to Des it can happen to anyone any time. Best to all the Meagher Family. Fly

Ged & Jase Barnett
([email protected]) Tue, 08 Mar 2011 19:15:29

Dear Jane, Ben and family...We are so sad to hear about the loss of Des...Our prayers are with you all...
Ged, Jase and family
xxx

Sue & Mac Hoogenboom
(
[email protected]) Tue, 08 Mar 2011 20:02:33

To all the extended Meagher family,
Our love and prayers on the loss of Des.
Jo, my former boss, love and prayers to you.

Daniel Johnson
(no email) Tue, 08 Mar 2011 20:59:30

So sad to here this shocking news. Thinking of you Jane and Boomer and your families. Des was a fantastic bloke who was one of those old fashioned mans man.
Love Johnno and Beth

Jane Elms
(
[email protected]) Tue, 08 Mar 2011 21:42:18

Shocked & tearful on hearing your sad news. Sending all the Meagher family our prayers, love & strength to help you through this heart wrenching time.
Love & hugs from Naida, Mardi & Mick, Greg & Jacqui, Jane & Robin. 

Jo & M
([email protected]) Tue, 08 Mar 2011 21:48:47

Dear Jo, Nick, Jake & Holly

I am in total disbelief to hear of the loss of Des. No words can help during this period, but your wonderful memories of your remarkable and loving Dad and Pop will be cherished forever more. My thoughts are with all your family, especially Nan. Take Care. 

Sue Byrne
([email protected]) Tue, 08 Mar 2011 22:08:05

To dear Nan and family, was so shocked and saddened to hear of Desi's death.
(annette Buckenara rang me earlier.)
Des looked so healthy, chirpy and in good spirits at dear Barb's funeral.Thinking of you and send lots of love to you. from Byrnesi.xxx

Jacky Whittard
(no email) Tue, 08 Mar 2011 22:08:42

Jane, I am so shocked and saddened at this news. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this time. Love Jacky xx

Glenda & Ed Caldwell
(
[email protected]) Tue, 08 Mar 2011 22:08:54

Dearest Nan and family
Words cannot express how shocked and saddened Ed and I are at the news of Des' passing. We know you will have wonderful support from your family but please know that we are constantly thinking of you all at this very sad time in your lives. 

David O'Neill
(davidoneill1971@gmail,com) Tue, 08 Mar 2011 22:11:23

Tough but fair seems to be a common theme about Des. He had a ferocious will to win which I'm sure was witnessed by many on the tennis in the backyard and on any golf course. I'll never forget the look of exasperation on his face when trying to teach the girls how to kick a footy properly.. Des you had a great influence on my life and I like many will miss you greatly. If your reading this Des up in the big house I'd happily come over on a Sunday morning with the biggest hangover ever and help sweep up the leaves if it meant we could have you back in one piece !!!!
My condolences to my other mum Nan and the girls I'm thinking of you all. Lots of love hugs and kisses Dave Cri and Finn 

Wayne Bevan
([email protected]) Tue, 08 Mar 2011 22:51:08

My Deepest Sympathy to all of the Meagher Family. Having played football with Des in the early 70's, I found out exactly what a true gentleman and excellent sportsman he was. I will never forget those little kicks out of the pack and even some long goals. Nan, my thoughts go out to you and your family.

Tanya Mitchell and Family
(no email) Tue, 08 Mar 2011 22:54:11

Dear Em and Family,
Words cannot express how saddened I am for you all on the passing of your dad. So many fond memories of growing up with your dad taking us down to Inverloch and of course to the footy...
Such a great man!
My thoughts are with you all through this very difficult time. Love to whole Meagher Family. xoxoxo 

Anne Dickinson
(
[email protected]) Tue, 08 Mar 2011 23:10:05

Dear Jane, Ben, Elle, Ruby and Gus,

Thinking of you and your family Jane and praying for strength for you all as you mourn the loss of your beloved Dad and grandfather.
With love and friendship,
Anne,Tim, Ellie, Matthew and Ava Dickinson xxx 

Julian Day
([email protected]) Wed, 09 Mar 2011 00:14:35

Dear Nan and family,

Dad rang me earlier and told me the devastating news.
My love and thoughts are with you.
Desi's smile and caring nature will never be forgotten,

Julian and family
xxx

Ree & Frank
(no email) Wed, 09 Mar 2011 00:47:34

Nan, Jo, Lisa, Jane and Em, Nick, Mick, Ben & Mark and not forgetting the grandkids

Words cannot express the great sorry we feel for you all, hearing the news of Des' death. We have followed your website and have laughed and cried with your account of the last week and have admired the strength and love that you have shown sharing Des' last days. Des' gentle nature and love of family has always been obvious to those who have known him and I thank you all for the opportunity to share some of your lives over the years as our family has been linked to yours.

All our love, prayer and thoughts

Re & Frank xx

Know that we are with you all in spirit and love.

Sally Day
(
[email protected]) Wed, 09 Mar 2011 00:48:20

Dearest Nanny and family,
Chris and I are so so saddened to hear that Des's life has be cut so short. Seeing those amazing pictures from those beautiful grandchildren shows just how much he is loved and how he will leave a lasting (and amazing) impact on their lives.
I was honoured to have seen Des a few times in the last few years at some very precious moments in our life - such a lovely gentle man.
We are thinking of you all and know this time will be a very difficult one - keep breathing and hold on to each other. xxx Sal.

Helen Walker
(no email) Wed, 09 Mar 2011 00:54:58

Dear Jo
So sorry to hear your sad news. Condolences to you and your family at this difficult time.
Helen Walker

Melissa Dioguardi
(
[email protected]) Wed, 09 Mar 2011 01:28:30

Dear Jane, Ben, Elle, Ruby & Gus
Our heart goes out to your whole family. Reading the news on Des and seeing and hearing the special pictures all the grandkids have given their Papa was beautiful. He was certainly a character and I remember fondly the few encounters I had with him.

You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Love Melissa, Mark, EMily, Breanna & Laura xxx

Chris and Toby Malkin
(
[email protected]) Wed, 09 Mar 2011 02:20:54

We are shocked at this news. Our hearts and love go out to Nan and the girls as well as all the children and families. We have loverly memories of lots of wonderful times at Duras and with you with the Pritchies. Go well Stanley. You are in our prayers.

Peter & Jeanette Mitchell and Family
([email protected]) Wed, 09 Mar 2011 02:24:50

Dear Nan, Jo, Lisa, Jane and Emma

We are so saddened to hear of Des' sudden passing.
Our thoughts are with you at this sad time.
A good man gone too early.

Peter & Jeanette Mitchell and Family.

Toby Malkin
(
[email protected]) Wed, 09 Mar 2011 02:31:16

To beautiful Nan and your girls, boys and little ones

We are just devastated to hear of your enormous loss. To think that just a few weeks ago we were laughing with Nan and Des on the deck at Bob and Pam's. Life can be so unfair. We loved Des, a handsome giant of a man who so adored his family. I know your hearts are broken, ours are too. We send you all our love and special thoughts at this tragic time. xxxxxooooo

John and Sarina Coutsouvelis
(
[email protected]) Wed, 09 Mar 2011 03:58:34

Dear Nan and family..
Our thought are with you... There are so many things we can say but at the moment "it's just not fair" seems the most appropriate. We are all better people for having crossed paths with Des...
Love the Coutsouvelis family..

Melissa O'Loan
([email protected]) Wed, 09 Mar 2011 04:04:00

Jane, My heart goes out to you and all your family. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. May you find comfort in the precious memories you all hold and share.
Love, Mel, Paul, Scarlett, Ethan, Paris & Sienna xxx

Nicole Avery
([email protected]) Wed, 09 Mar 2011 05:10:13

Dear Jane, Ben, Elle, Ruby & Gus,

We are so saddened to hear of loss of your dad and papa. Way too soon for him to go.

You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Love Nic, Phil, Moss, Eamonn, Mabel, Stirling and Magnus

Megan Harrison
(
[email protected]) Wed, 09 Mar 2011 06:02:51

Dear Nan, Joey, Leese, Jane & Em, boys & kids-
Thinking of you all at this time of unbearable sadness and knowing that not only was Des an amazing man, but that he was so fortunate to have such a loving & capable bunch of girls around him throughout his life - particularly as he endured his last week.

What a loving and supportive dad and grandpa who will live on in your treasured memories.

All my love and sympathy, Megs.
(Billy, Mietta & Lachie too)

Matt Hopkinson
(
[email protected]) Wed, 09 Mar 2011 11:27:51

It was with great sadness I heard of Des's stroke and even greater sorrow to hear of his passing. I was scared of Des (which I soon learnt was misplaced) when I first met him flogging the twos on a summers preseason at Glenferrie oval. I was fortunate enough to later get to know the whole Meagher family and see more of Desi's tender side and his wicked dry sense of humour.
Des gave so much to family, friends, medicine, football and life in general, and its fair to say today the world is worse off for his passing.
Our heartfelt sympathies to Nan and all the girls
Matt, Erica, Lily and Angus

Peter Curran
(
[email protected]) Wed, 09 Mar 2011 14:42:00

On behalf of Fiona, Tom, Chloe and myself I extend our deepest condolences to Nan and the Meagher family at hearing the news of Des' passing. Des is,beyond contestation, the most selfless football person I have met. He was uncompromising in setting standards for young players and he was a genius at devising a pre-season run around either Wattle Park or the Kew Boulevard that started and finished in the same place, was all up-hill and always into the wind!
He remains, always, a significant influence on me. The devotion of his family in setting up this chronicle of the past several days is indicative of the impact Desi Meagher has had on those nearest to him. What a wonderful legacy. Here's to celebrating a life lived in full.
"PC"

Kate Thomas
(
[email protected]) Wed, 09 Mar 2011 15:55:30

To Nan, Jo, Lisa, Jane, Emma and families.

I'm reeling; how can a man so full of life so suddenly be gone. My deepest condolences - I'm so sorry for your loss.
I'm sure he and Dad are up there now picking the Old Xav's team for the season!
We were at least prepared for Dad's passing; I can only imagine the profound grief you're feeling.
Thinking of you all
Katy T

Greg Dear
([email protected]) Wed, 09 Mar 2011 18:38:28

To the Meagher family it is with great sorrow to hear of the passing of Des.
He had a great influence on me and i smile today when i think of some of his personal coaching comments made to me.
He was a teriffic bloke and will be greatly missed.
Best wishes.
Greg Dear

Kristan Family
(
[email protected]) Wed, 09 Mar 2011 19:07:52

Dear Meagher Family & extended family. So sorry to hear the news of Des's passing. He is a total inspiration to all who knew him. Our deepest thoughts go out to all the family. Thanks for all the wonderful comments, poems, photos, etc on his website very emotional & heart warming. 

Rebecca Bacon (Bourke)
([email protected]) Wed, 09 Mar 2011 20:54:07

Oh Jane! I'm so sorry to hear of your Dad's passing and my condolences go out to the whole family. Sam passed on your blog details today and I'm reading through the tears.

Much love,
Bec
xxxc

Andrea & Mark
(
[email protected]) Wed, 09 Mar 2011 22:29:32

Great sadness for all. Such a generous, fun loving man always wanting to play with the kids at the beach or share his wisdom with the adults whilst entertaining at inverloch. Take care girls and look after Nan. All our love Andrea, mark & Julius 

David Flintoff
(
[email protected]) Wed, 09 Mar 2011 22:46:49

Very sad to hear the news of Des and my thoughts to Nan and the family.
His influence on so many of his HFC players was profound and I will always look back on my time under Des as one of great learning. Unquestionably he 'shaped' many of us with method. Proud to have played under him in that Reserves '85 flag that he coached to perfection and still remember fondly the tennis we played in Mitcham with him and the girls... RIP Des.

David Flintoff

Geraldine & Martin O'Hare
(
[email protected]) Thu, 10 Mar 2011 05:35:41

Deepest sympathy to Nan and all her beautiful family..Des will be truly missed The O'Hare family

Emma & Conor O'Hare
([email protected]) Thu, 10 Mar 2011 14:11:25

Sending all of our love to the Meagher family - we are thinking of you all a lot. Love Conor, Em, Bonnie and Maeve xx

Greg Feutrill
(no email) Thu, 10 Mar 2011 14:17:24

Des your leadership at WOCFC was something I will never forget. Every player at the cluib knew where they stood with you. We were the beneficiaries of your extraordinary character. I will never forget the way you handled the playing group after the death of our captain, there was only one way and that was forward! To all of the family my deepest sypmathy. RIP Des.

Cuzza & Spider
(
[email protected]) Thu, 10 Mar 2011 20:39:30

Des your time at WOFC will never be forgotten. I mean how can it. Each time we past players get together and talk of your coaching time, all we ever talk about are two things: Those bloody hill climbs that never ended and the 98 & 99 Premierships'. We may not have been the best skilled team, but we were the fittest team by far. You will be sadly missed not only by the players who played under you, but by all that met you at WOFC. Deepest sympathy to Boomer & Jane and the Meagher Family. Cuzza, Spider and family.

Fr Paul Cahill
(
[email protected]) Sat, 12 Mar 2011 16:18:00

It was an honour to have a man like Des associated with Whitefriars College through his coaching of the Old Collegians Football Club. Quite apart from the success he achieved at the Club, he had a very positive character building influence on so many of the Whitefriars old boys, among others, and this will never be forgotten.
Fr Paul Cahill, O.Carm
Principal
Whitefriars College

Jen Langford
(no email) Mon, 14 Mar 2011 14:03:12

To Jo, Nan, Lise, Jane and Em,
Desi had such a remarkable professional and sporting life, but by far his greatest legacy will be you lot and his grandies.
I have delightful memories of Sunray Court and being thrashed by the Hawks all through the 80s.
Thank God for big loving families and so many friends as you rest your beloved Des.

I am so sorry for your loss and send lots of love. Jen (Bren, Tom and Holly)
Jacqui
([email protected]) Mon, 07 Mar 2011 21:57:52

Em, today sounds like a better day, I love to hear that his being sneaky and stealing the water. Just like you with a wine. Love you lost Jac xx 

Pam Pritchard
([email protected]) Mon, 07 Mar 2011 22:07:44

Jane, you are amazing! It is so so hard at this end too, the days so long, especially when we don't hear much and don't know what to do for best. The phone runs hot with enquiries and the door is constantly knocked on. Feel so useless. Hope you will let us know when/if Nan needs her big sis. Heaps of love to all. Pam

Steve and Amy
([email protected]) Mon, 07 Mar 2011 22:18:54

Des we wish you a speedy recovery, love and best wishes to Nan and all the Meagher family.
Your neighbours in Inverloch Amy and Steve

Charles
([email protected]) Mon, 07 Mar 2011 22:19:40

Hi Nan and Des. Thinking of you both. Love the blog stuff from the fam et al. Your love for Des shines through brilliantly. I love him too!!

Carlo Corallo
([email protected]) Mon, 07 Mar 2011 22:26:37

Dear Des, great to hear you are doing really well.
Saying lots of prayers for a speedy recovery.
we need you for the next BBQ at Seville.
Lots of love, the Corallo's

Em
([email protected]) Tue, 08 Mar 2011 01:02:33

Hey Jane!
What's this 'Off the ball work' statement about??!
After helping the nurse give Dad a refreshing wash today, I then tackled the mechanical harness and helped him land very smoothly and safely to sit upright in the chair!
We also plugged in double earphones and jammed to the Phil Collins concert before being rudely interrupted by the Doc. Off the ball shmall.. I'm all over that Sherrin!

Jen
([email protected]) Tue, 08 Mar 2011 01:37:09

You are all truly beautiful! Blessed to have each other and I feel blessed to know you- Go Dezzi-Love u Nanni and thankyou for theis wonderful connection xx oo xx

Lani
([email protected]) Tue, 08 Mar 2011 02:06:07

We are all terribly saddened to hear the news Des. With such a beautiful family supporting your recovery, lets hope its a speedy one. Love to all you girls and extended family. You are doing a super job!! Lani, Mel, Mim, Harry and Lewis.

marilla greenhalgh
([email protected]) Tue, 08 Mar 2011 17:55:36

Love your whole family so much, our hearts are breaking for you all xxxxxxx
IAN & NEIL PEARSON
([email protected]) Tue, 08 Mar 2011 14:08:17

TWO EX HAWTHORN PLAYERS ARE PRAYING FOR YOU DES.
YOUR DETERMINATION SHOWN AS A PLAYER WILL ASSIST YOU IN YOUR RECOVERY. 

Carmela and Mafalda
([email protected]) Tue, 08 Mar 2011 15:27:31

Des- just don't forget how much we all need you. Not just your family- but people like me and mum.
Sam
([email protected]) Mon, 07 Mar 2011 01:23:57

What beautiful birthday cards from the grandkids! Happy Birthday Dessie. Keep up the fight and the 'magical hospital moments.' Love to all the family. Sam, Cliff, Ollie and Macey x 

Ray Wilson
([email protected]) Mon, 07 Mar 2011 16:12:27

Nan and girls

Devastated to learn of this. Des and I roomed on a Victorian Amateur trip and played our first games for Hawthorn the same day. Remarkably, shining through the physical disaster is Des's special and unique humour - sharp, biting, and so funny. He is an original, and I treasure having had the pleasure to experience his company. I admire your bravery in compiling the blog, and will follow it and desperately hope to read more good news. Margaret joins in sending good wishes to you all. 

Sparksy 
([email protected]) Mon, 07 Mar 2011 16:25:00

Des , sorry to hear about your terrible misfortune. I always think of you when recalling my 2nd , (and total ) of games played for the Hawks . Kanga dragged me in favour of you just before half time of the game against South at Princes Park (1976) . He wanted a mud-runner on the field rather than a classy goal kicker I guess .
Now if you 're looking for some real music to inspire you on your road to recovery , and you will recover Des , go to my website and listen to the sampler of my CD "Golfs Greatest Hits " by the Great Grey Spark . If you like , and if one of your beautiful daughters could come back to me with an address , the full cd , and personally signed ( autographed ) (( unlike you Des, I only had a couple of opportunities to sign autographs back then )) by the Great Grey Spark will be on its way.
I didn't realise until I saw you just had your 67th that we played in the same team 35 years ago, with 14 years between us old man . You're still not too old to get over this though Des . Give it your best shot
Regards Sparksy (Graeme Spark )

Robert Day
([email protected]) Mon, 07 Mar 2011 17:29:41

Nan
Great Blog you must be proud that I found it !!
Look after him and yourself.
Love to the Family
Rob and Yvonne
Kimberley Meagher
([email protected]) Sun, 06 Mar 2011 13:34:45

Happy Birthday Uncle Des, keep strong, keep fighting. xo
Thanks Jane, will be reading and keeping up to date. My thoughts and love are with you, Nan and everyone, but especially with Des. 

John Duguid
([email protected]) Mon, 07 Mar 2011 00:02:29

Dear Jane Lisa and families, To you both you are wonderful products of a great bloke. Please pass on to your mum and Des, Jenny and my best wishes and prayers for a speedy recovery. If any body can do it Des can and I still want to see his world champ golf club throwing performance.
Love, Jenny and John Duguid
Holly
([email protected]) Wed, 09 Mar 2011 14:27:25

To papa i wish you could come back I have being crying i wish i was up there you were a good grandpa it is so sad you are gone
Claire Clifford 'Farty'
Mon, 07 Mar 2011 03:47:56

Wouldn't be the first time Dessy has dropped the 'F' bomb after many years of watching us play tennis! Slice backhand coming your way Des! Wish I was there and sending all our prayers, hope and love to you all...a true fighter who I know won't give up x

Ian & Barb Law
([email protected]) Tue, 08 Mar 2011 00:40:46

Dear Nan & the Girls,if anyone can " pull Des through" you lot will,your great humor and strenght will help Des"GET UP"(to quote"Kanga")laughter is the best medicine, it will be a rocky road for a while but we are sure you will get there. We will keep in touch.Lots of Love, Thanks for the Blog
Liberty & Barb