Football club and school mourn loss of ‘gentle man’

“Shock waves” have travelled through a popular football club and school community north of Brisbane after the sudden death of much loved father-of-six.

Russell Standish has been remembered by the Moreton Bay community as a dedicated football coach and teacher's aide. Picture: Caboolture Sports Football Club

Tributes have poured in for a Caboolture football coach and teacher’s aide after his shock passing.

Russell Standish, 43, suffered a heart attack Friday, December 18 and despite the efforts of doctors and a strong fight from Mr Standish, he died the morning of January 6.

The father of six, Morayfield East State School teacher’s aide and Caboolture Sports Football Club coach and former over-35s player has been remembered for his passion for helping young people both on and off the field, as well as his love of the game.

Football club president Paul Shorter said Mr Standish, who was the football club’s first team manager and coach of the Under-15/2, Under-6 Taipans teams (teams in which two of his sons played), was “a gentle, kind man that had something nice to say about everyone”.

“He was infectious in his passion for the club and passion for football,” Mr Shorter said.

“He (was) the role model for a lot of children.

“A lot of parents asked for him to be their child’s coach year on year.”

He said Mr Standish was also a “guiding influence” for youths at the club.

“There are a lot of people who will miss him.

“He helped a lot of people and wanted nothing in return for his efforts.”

Caboolture Sports FC president Paul Shorter (left) with Russell Standish. Picture: Caboolture Sports Football Club

Mr Shorter said Mr Standish’s passing had been “a massive shock” for many in the close-knit club.

“There were a lot of hopes that he would recover.

“And when it didn’t happen, shockwaves went through the club.”

Mr Shorter said a memorial for Mr Standish would be held at the club — “the place he loved to be” — on January 23 and other “plans to keep his legacy alive” were in the pipeline.

Hundreds of people took the club’s Facebook page — which Mr Standish was instrumental in driving — to share their grief and warm memories.

Brendan Gentlebrook said Mr Standish would be remembered as a “truly genuine and decent human being”.

“Russ was always the first to step up and was an inspiration to his players and teammates alike,” Mr Gentlebrook said.

“There are a huge group of young people whose lives have been influenced and are all the better for having known him.”

Father Russell Standish was a beloved teacher's aide at Morayfield East State School and a player and coach at Caboolture Sports Football Club. Picture: Facebook/Russ Standish

Lisa Maree described the news as “truly sad”.

“This is truly a sad day for his family and anyone who had the privilege of knowing him,” she said.

“He coached my son for five years and he was so passionate, and an inspiration to the boys.

“He was dedicated to his family and sport and music, and his memory will be treasured forever with our family.

“Sending our thoughts and prayers to his beautiful family who he adored.”

However, the most moving post of all was from Mr Standish’s daughter Phoebe.

“He was the best dad, I could of ever asked for,” she said.

Tributes also flowed in from rival football clubs, for a man who made a positive impact on so many.

“On behalf of the Annerley Football Club and particularly the members of our under 15 Division 2 team we would like to pass on our deepest condolences,” said Ben Sharma.

Peninsula Power FC also shared their condolences with the Mr Standish’s loved ones.

Meanwhile, the Morayfield East State School community is mourning the loss of a an extremely popular teacher’s aide.

Russell Standish has been remembered for his passion for his football. Picture: Caboolture Sports Football Club

“This is just devastating news. All the kids at school are going to miss you like crazy,” said Kelly-Anne Muckert.

“Another angel has earned their wings. The front gate at school will never be the same,” said Michelle Koch.

“You were such a caring aide; your tireless devotion to the students at MESS was amazing,” said Denise Margie.

School principal Julieanne Wilson paid tribute to a “valued colleague and friend”.

“Russ has been a valued long serving staff member at Morayfield East State School and has made huge and valuable contributions to the education of so many young children,” Ms Wilson said.

“He always had a passion for the early years sector and both teachers and students will remember his warm and welcoming smile as he played and worked with them.”

Ms Wilson said the school was supporting Mr Standish’s family and had also offered counselling for students.

A Go Fund Me campaign has also been set up for Mr Standish’s family. It has so far raised nearly $8000.

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