Clinton Baulch: Warrnambool farewells much-loved car dealer

A Warrnambool “loyal leader” has been remembered at an emotional service where his son paid tribute to his “best mate”.

Clinton Baulch was farewelled at a funeral service in Warrnambool on April 11.

Warrnambool farewelled its “hero” and car dealer at an emotional funeral service in the south-west community on Monday.

Clinton Baulch, 48, ran the Clinton Baulch Motor Group for about 15 years and died on March 28 at his home.

Warrnambool’s St Josephs Church was packed on Monday, as those who knew Mr Baulch shared their memories of their “true blue” mate.

Clinton’s son Tom Baulch said his dad was his best friend.

“To my best mate that I'm lucky enough to call dad, that I've always looked up to and you've always been there,” he said.

“Being out on the farm we love will never be the same again. I’m going to miss lining the bulls up for another local show and counting down the days until Wodonga, the best week of the year.

“The dream we share of breeding top quality Herefords, is not over and I hope you have left your wit, drive and determination in me to make the dreams happen. I love you mate.”

Clinton Baulch from Baulch Motor Group died on March 28. Picture: Submitted

Mr Baulch with his children. Picture: Submitted.

Clinton’s brother Dale said his sibling was his friend, his soundboard, and someone who gave him the confidence to take many leaps of faith.

“With you by my side or in my ear, I have the confidence to ... back myself in anything that came my way. I hope to continue to draw strength out of your unwavering enthusiasm and future opportunities that life throws my way,” he said,

Friends of ‘Baulchy’ said he was like loyal, a leader, a brother-in-arms and a larrikin.

When Baulchy entered the room they said, he didn't enter; he filled it, with his generosity, his laugh and his energy.

Boxing gloves, cow skin, picture of Hereford cows, work boots, an akubra and a Cobden Bombers footy jersey were displayed on the church altar.

In a statement Clinton Baulch Motor Group said it had received support from across the country since his death.

“We would also like to thank everybody for the many messages, calls and gestures of support both locally and from across the country,” a spokesperson said.

“It’s astonishing the impact Clinton has had on so many lives.”