Robbie Flower, Melbourne legend and AFL Hall of Famer, passes away aged 59

MELBOURNE legend Robbie Flower will be remembered as one of the finest players to ever pull on the boots.

1987. Footscray v Melbourne. Western Oval. Todd Viney and Robert Flower (Robbie Flower). Picture: TERRY PHELAN. Neg: 870829/...

MELBOURNE’S most loved player, Robert Flower, has passed away. He was 59.

Known affectionately as “Tulip’’, Flower was the champion of Melbourne through the 1980s and captained the club from 1981 until his final game in 1987.

Melbourne officials were told the sudden passing late on Thursday night.

MIKE SHEAHAN: I loved Robbie Flower

What’s your favourite memory of Tulip? Leave your tribute below

“It is with the deepest regret that we wish to advise of the sudden passing of Robert Flower, after a brief, unexpected illness,” a Flower family statement said.

“The family is devastated by the sudden loss and would appreciate privacy at this time.”

Robbie Flower with David Neitz before he broke Flower’s club games record.

He played 272 games for the Demons and was widely recognised for his sublime skill on the wing.

He was much loved by Melbourne fans and greatly admired by all football supporters.

Vale Robbie Flower . He was always such a gentleman. One of my heroes. http://t.co/sPFTzMo1zh

— Bob Murphy (@BobMurphy02) October 2, 2014

He was a member of the club’s team of the century, rightly filling the position on the wing.

In 1999, Flower was voted on a wing in the AFL Players Association best team of the previous 25 years.

Flower held the club games record until overtaken by David Neitz in 2006. Over his career he played in just 88 wins, and 184 losses.

Ron Barassi and Robert Flower walk onto the MCG.

The Melbourne Football Club released a statement, describing Flower as a “favourite son”.

“The club offers its deepest sympathies to Rob’s family and friends at this incredibly sad time,” they stated.

So sad to hear the news about the demon legend Robbie Flower! One of the nicest blokes I have ever met! RIP Tulip.

— adem yze (@ooze21) October 2, 2014

“Rob captured the hearts of every Melbourne supporter and was a much-loved favourite son.

“One of the club’s greatest players – and one of the all-time greats – Flower played 272 matches and kicked 315 goals for Melbourne from 1973-87. He also captained the club from 1981-87.

“A brilliantly skillful and majestic wingman, Flower also played across half-back and half-forward in a decorated career.

“Universally admired in the game, Flower’s legacy will always remain strong at the Melbourne Football Club and the AFL community.”

ROBERT FLOWER

Born: August 5, 1955

Died: October 2, 2014

Club: Melbourne

Recruited from: Murrumbeena

Career: 1973-87

Height: 182cm. Weight: 68kg.

Games: 272 (second highest at Melbourne)

Wins: 88. Losses: 184.

Goals: 315

Honours

Melbourne best-and-fairest 1977

Third in 1979 Brownlow Medal count (19 votes)

Third in 1984 Brownlow Medal (19 votes)

Melbourne captain 1981-87

Robbie Flower was a Victoria State of Origin captain.

Originally published as Robbie Flower, Melbourne legend and AFL Hall of Famer, passes away aged 59