Deep sadness has fallen on Bensons Lane and the entire Hawkesbury district this week, as Peter Shipley, the 'every man' of our fine club, lost his lengthy battle with lung cancer, and later pneumonia on Monday morning.
Peter was surrounded by his immediate family in Mt Druitt hospital and passed away peacefully at 0730.
The extent of Pete's work around the footy club was unmatched, never more evident than reading his CV for his nomination for Sydney AFL Volunteer of the Year in 2009.
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His volunteer work didn't end there, as Pete was Secretary of the Riverstone Lions Club for countless years, illustrating the selfless attitude and big heart that those at Bensons came to know, love and admire, and will miss for many more years to come.
The Shipley family were forever honoured in recent years, when the Nor-West Jets Senior Grade Best & Fairest was struck as The Shipley Medal.
Always there to lend a hand, Pete knew what jobs needed to be done, and he was also recognised as Sydney's best timekeeper with his wife Jenny, with the League requesting his services, time and again.
It won't feel the same running down the stairs before the game now, as all players, new and old, would give Pete a nod as they headed out onto Bensons, but rest assured, his legacy will show future Saints and Jets the magnitude of work this great man has indelibly left, and his family and friends will carry on in future years.
A service will be held on Thursday Feb 24 at St Johns Church, Garfield Rd, Riverstone from 1330, before Peter will be laid to rest at Kemps Creek Catholic Cemetery, Western Rd, Kemps Creek at approx 1500-1530, with a celebration of this local legend's life to be held back in his beloved home town of Riverstone, with venue TBA.
In lieu of flowers, the family has asked those wishing to pay respects to make a donation to Riverstone Lions Club, where proceeds will be distributed to various charities close to Pete's heart.
All Hawkesbury Saints & Nor-West Jets personnel are required in full club uniform of club shirt, black pants & shoes at the request of the Shipley family, and Life Members are to wear their badges.
Peter is survived by his wife Jenny, two sons Damien & Dominic, and his beautiful grand-daughter Peyton.
Last Modified on 24/02/2012 14:38