‘Be kind to each other’: Inside the letter AFL great Robert Walls wrote before his death, read at MCG funeral
Before his death, Carlton legend Robert Walls wrote a letter to be read at his funeral. Today, it was shared with hundreds of mourners at the MCG.
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A pre-written letter from late footy great Walls was read to the crowd at the end of the memorial, visibily moving the huge turnout of friends, family and AFL greats who came to pay their respects.
Walls wrote about the “fortunate” life he led with his family and career.
“The most fortunate thing in my life was meeting and marrying Erin - we raised three beautiful kids: Rebecca, David and Daniel.”
“Who have become just very good, kind, respectful, decent people.”
“My adult kids are my best friends.”
“Erin and I shared over 30 years together. She was always my strong, loyal support, and a devoted mum.”
He continued that “fortune shone” on him again when he met Julie with whom he shared “wonderful memories”.
“Enough from me, goodbye, best wishes and be kind to each other,” the letter finished.
The enormous crowd packed the MCG’s Member’s Dining Room and the 600-seat service was MC’d by former MCC and Carlton chief Stephen Gough who also gave a speech, as did Walls’ sister Annette Coonan, daughter Rebecca and sons David and Daniel.
Walls’ historic decison to play David Rhys-Jones against Dermott Brererton in the 1987 Grand Final was remembered as a significant career highlight.
Other speakers from Walls’ football career were Fitzroy best and fairest winner Scott Clayton, Essendon president David Barnham who helped start Walls’ media career, and Footscray and Brisbane player Michael “Magic” McLean.
Walls was remembered as a “big softie” behind his hardman image by his daughter.
Nathan Buckley, who was first coached by Walls, was also in the crowd.
In attendance were 1986 Carlton captain Mark Maclure, and captain of Carlton’s team of the century Stephen Kernahan.
Carlton coach Michael Voss also came to pay his respects, league boss Andrew Dillon, and Laura Kane, the league’s general manager of football.
Carlton great Bruce Doull, Brisbane legend Marcus Ashcroft and Swans recruiting manager Kinnear Beatson were all seen walking through gate 2 of the arena.
David Rhys-Jones and Adrian Gleeson who played under Robert Walls in the legendary 1987 Grand Final have also shown up to pay their respects.
Originally published as ‘Be kind to each other’: Inside the letter AFL great Robert Walls wrote before his death, read at MCG funeral
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