Popular cricketer and teacher from Melbourne’s southeast Jack O’Toole has died after a four year battle with cancer
A 27-year-old Haileybury College teacher who battled a rare type of cancer for four years has been remembered as a “loving husband” and a “wonderful friend”.
Inner South
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A beloved husband from Melbourne’s southeast is being remembered as “a warrior” after losing a four year battle with cancer on Christmas Day.
Jack ‘Tooly’ O’Toole bravely fought against Ewing’s Sarcoma (a rare type of cancer in adults) before receiving the devastating news that he had exhausted all treatment options available to him.
The 27-year-old passed on Christmas Day, with his wife Emily by his side.
The pair became high school sweethearts while students at Haileybury College and married in April.
An active member of his local community, Mr O’Toole touched many lives through his involvement in St Kilda and Frankston Cricket Clubs’, during his teaching career at Haileybury College and in his personal life.
Demonstrating the impact Mr O’Toole had on those around him, a GoFundMe campaign set up by a close family friend raised $85,308 in eight short days, with messages of love and support flowing in.
Remembered at the St Kilda Cricket Club as a “stylish batter”, assistant coach and a triple premiership player, Mr O’Toole will be “missed dearly”.
“The club will pay tribute to Jack in the new year when we return to training,” a club spokesperson said.
“For now our deepest condolences are to his wife, his parents and his close friends.
“Tooly, your smile and positive attitude was contagious. You will be sorely missed.”
Similar tributes have emerged from ex-students, coached players, friends and family.
“Jack was an absolute ripper,” fellow cricketer Tom Morris said.
“He was the sort of bloke everyone enjoys being around.”
“Jack was such a fine person, teacher, friend and role model,” friend Derek Scott said.
Memorial service details for Mr O’Toole have not yet been released.
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