Nathan Weckert’s life celebrated in front of packed Sunshine Coast Stadium

“We will remember your determination, love of life and beautiful smile”: More than 1000 people have turned out to pay respects to beloved Sunshine Coast footballer Nathan Weckert.

The life of the beloved Nathan Weckert has been celebrated in front of more than 1000 people who came to remember a “cheeky, happy go lucky larrikin” with a rare “zest for life”.

In a service where laughter fittingly dominated tears, Nathan’s loved ones came out in droves to pay respect to their friend, son, brother, uncle and teammate.

His family chose Sunshine Coast Stadium, a venue where Nathan had crossed so many white lines over the years, as the perfect place to celebrate his life.

Nathan Weckert has been mourned in a touching service at Sunshine Coast Stadium in front of more than 1000 people. Picture: Matty Holdsworth

Monday’s service came almost two weeks since Nathan was killed in a roadside tragedy on the Bruce Highway at Palmview.

A statement from police said Nathan had been travelling north on the highway when his car was understood to have hit a guardrail.

The police statement said Nathan had exited his vehicle and was waiting for help in the emergency stopping lane when another northbound car allegedly collided with him about 8pm.

He was 17.

Nathan is survived by parents Shannon Dodson and Jason Weckert and siblings Corey, Jordyn and Ryan.

His death reverberated throughout the Sunshine Coast and Brisbane communities, evident in the masses that flocked to the stadium.

Sunflowers were scattered on Nathan’s coffin, brought in by pallbearers wearing suit jackets and “fruit loop” undies in an ultimate last inside joke Nathan would surely have loved.

Nathan Weckert’s pallbearers and their ‘fruit loop’ undies. Picture: Matty Holdsworth

Jerseys hung from goalposts, each representing a footballing chapter that closed after Nathan’s death.

From his cherished Liverpool FC and Australia kits, to those closer to home in Noosa Lions, Chancellor State College and Brisbane Olympic.

Wearing a dress of Liverpool red, Nathan’s mother Shannon Dodson said football was everything to her son, something only bested by family.

Mrs Dodson spoke of Nathan’s ever-present support on Friday nights watching Jordyn in action, following up with Corey’s games on Saturday.

She spoke of the “priceless” banter and wrestling matches he had with younger brother Ryan, ones that often ended in the latter “tapping out”.

She said he was a boy “who wanted nothing, asked for nothing and expected nothing”.

Nathan Weckert’s mother Shannon Dodson said her son lived life to the fullest. Picture: Matty Holdsworth

“My heart will be broken forever but it is also incredibly full knowing I left nothing in the tank for Nath,” Mrs Dodson said.

“I will treasure every single moment of his 17 years, five months and 19 days.

“Kindness is free and forgiveness is incredibly powerful and they were qualities he lived by.”

Mrs Dodson acknowledged the packed field which she put down to Nathan’s ability to “make his way into so many families”.

Jordyn Weckert, supported by Corey and Ryan, took to the podium to share memories of Nathan written by her father Jason.

Nathan’s loving family including parents Shannon Dodson and Jason Weckert at his celebration. Picture: Matty Holdsworth

Mr Weckert’s words reflected the pride he had in his son.

Not only for his sporting prowess but the personal qualities too.

“He was a bloody amazing footballer, he lived and breathed it,” Jordyn said on behalf of her father.

“But he was very humble and would shy from praise. He was a real boy’s boy and would do anything at the drop of the hat.

“I am so proud of the young man he was and I wish I could tell him more.

“He was more than a son to me, he was my best mate.”

Former Noosa Lions coach Kevin Evans described Nathan as a “mercurial human” with a zest for life.

Mr Evans said while Nathan’s career had only just kicked off, his highlights reel was full.

“That time he scored on debut at 15 in one of the FFA Cup’s youngest goal scorers in history, his countless last ditch tackles, his mesmerising solo goals, grand final wins and playing with his brother,” Mr Evans said.

“He was the brightest light within our football family.

“He taught us how important it is to chase our dreams while loving the people closest to us.

“His spirit will never be forgotten.”

Former Noosa Lions coach Kevin Evans described Nathan Weckert as a mercurial human. Picture: Matty Holdsworth

Sunshine Coast Futsal administrator and family friend Trevor Edwards knew Nathan almost from birth.

“Uncle Trevvy” shared stories and remembered Nathan’s beaming smile and friendly banter.

He said the footballing communities from far and wide mourned the loss of an incredible player with a “thunderous right boot”.

“Nathan, you will live in our hearts forever, and every time we take the pitch or hear the whistle blow, we will remember your determination, love of life and beautiful smile,” Mr Edwards said.

As the service closed, Nathan’s hearse was given one last lap of honour of the stadium.

It was followed by a “party” at his junior club Buderim Wanderers.

Ms Dodson said they didn’t want a sad and sober memorial, instead a celebration of Nathan’s life.

She said she wanted people to remember her son and continue to keep talking about him.

Originally published as Nathan Weckert’s life celebrated in front of packed Sunshine Coast Stadium