By Daniel Cherny
Essendon are mourning the death of long-serving club doctor Bruce Reid, who passed away earlier this week.
He had been enduring a battle with mesothelioma, an asbestos-related cancer. Reid was 74.
Long-time Essendon doctor Bruce Reid has died.Credit: Pat Scala
Reid served at the Dons for well over three decades and was much-loved by Bombers of several generations. He joined the Bombers in 1982 after spending time as Richmond's club doctor when Kevin Sheedy played with the Tigers.
He played three games for Hawthorn between 1966 and 1967.
Reid was embroiled in the Bombers' supplements saga but was ultimately cleared of any wrongdoing.
Reid had only days ago been elevated to legend status at Essendon, alongside Neale Daniher, Gavin Wanganeen and Dustin Fletcher.
“Both Neale and Bruce have been fighting respective health issues in recent years, so I am delighted our Hall of Fame committee can bestow this honour to two such beloved members of the Essendon family. Both Neale and Bruce are warriors and we are wishing them and their families our continued love, thoughts and support," said Bombers president Paul Brasher in his citation.
Former Dons captain Brendon Goddard paid tribute to Reid on AFL Trade Radio on Wednesday.
"It's sad news for everyone, especially [wife] Judy and the kids. The footy club was almost like a sanctuary for him, he just loved the club and the boys. He has had such an immense impact on so many people's lives. Such a wonderful man," Goddard said.
Scott Cummings was another former Bomber to pay tribute to Reid. "Absolutely shattered to hear of the passing of Bruce Reid. Some ppl just leave a lasting positive mark on u and that to me is the meaning of life. My heart goes out to his family and all my ex-teammates and other Essendon players and staff who love him so much. #valebrucereid," Cummings posted on Twitter on Wednesday morning.
Ex-Dons midfielder Andrew Welsh also tweeted his tribute.
"Shattered .......but so thankful to have had Bruce in our life. You rest easy my little mate, you truly were one of a kind. RIP," Welsh wrote.
Former Essendon director Paul Cousins noted Reid's caring nature.
"Very sad to hear the news about Reidy, just a really great fella. Dedicated so much of his life to the footy club and showed such genuine care for all those in and around it. Loved a chat and was brilliant company, will be missed by many. Vale Bruce," Cousins tweeted.
Reid's influence extended to non-Essendon people. Former Collingwood women's player Meg Hutchins had known Reid since she was a child.
"R.I.P Dr Bruce Reid. Our family doctor, neighbour and friend for my whole upbringing. Many a time spent playing endless games of football at their home with one of his sons Ed. Such a kind, funny and gentle man. My thoughts are with Judy and the kids. Love to all," she tweeted.