Lifelong cricket and football enthusiast passes tragically after two year battle to pancreatic cancer

A footy and cricket enthusiast who made a big impact on his local community has died, sending shockwaves throughout the southern suburbs.

David Burgess, described as "kind and funny", sadly died after a two-year battle with cancer on Sunday March 2. Picture: Supplied

The death of beloved father and husband has left a southern suburbs community gutted after his shock passing.

David ‘Burga’ Burgess, 57, sadly died after a long two-year battle with pancreatic cancer last Sunday.

Since the early 1980s, the active Mount Compass resident spent his leisure time as both a coach and active player in his local football and cricket clubs, including the Milang Football Club.

His son Sheldon Burgess, 28, said his father was “an absolute legend and will be missed so dearly by so many”.

Described as “a kind, witty and loving” father, Mr Burgess used to trade as a brick layer and also was a local groundsman at the Burgess Oval.

Mount Compass Cricket Club pays tribute to David 'Burga' Burgess who was 'a much loved and respected' coach, committee Member, groundsman, curator and mentor. Picture: Facebook

The Mount Compass Cricket Club paid tribute on Facebook post to the life-long enthusiast who was a “much loved and respect member” and “outstanding fast bowler” held in high regard at the Great Southern Cricket Association.

“He was a Coach, Committee Member, Groundsman, Curator, Mentor and friend to many (if not all) over the years,” the post said.

“His contribution was selfless, and will never be forgotten”.

Mr Burgess’ death came after an “unexpected and emotional journey for his family’.

A GoFundMe page has been set up by his daughter-in-law to support his wife, Tash Burgess, 48, to help alleviate the financial pressures of the family during this period, including cover funeral services and a memorial.

More than $24,000 has been raised so support the family during their time of grief.

“[Mr Burgess’s] legacy of inspiration and guidance will never be forgotten,” the page description reads, and also offers thanks “the amazing community they have been a part of their entire lives” for their support and kindness.

“Any form of donation, big or small, will ease this family’s burden during their time of grief and help ensure that both his memory and his wife’s unyielding care and love are properly celebrated”.

Mr Burgess is survived by his wife Tash, and his son Sheldon.

You can support the family by donating to their GoFundMe page.

Originally published as Lifelong cricket and football enthusiast passes tragically after two year battle to pancreatic cancer