AFL great Ron Barassi dies peacefully surrounded by family

The family of AFL great Ron Barassi will be offered a state funeral to honour the legendary footballer.

Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews will offer the family AFL legend AFL Ron Barassi a state funeral to remember him.

The Barassi family confirmed the AFL star died on Saturday in a statement.

“After a full and extraordinary life, Ronald Dale Barassi, aged 87, left us today due to complications from a fall,” the family stated.

“He died peacefully, surrounded by loving family.

“We ask for privacy at this time.”

Ron Barassi has died, aged 87. Picture: Supplied

Barassi was the very first player to be inaugurated into the Australian Football Hall of Fame as a Legend after an exceptional career.

He was a six-time Premiership player for Melbourne and four-time Premiership coach with two different clubs.

Mr Andrews posted on social media on Saturday the Victorian Government will offer the Barassi family a state funeral to remember the 87-year-old.

“The word legend is used a lot,” Mr Andrews said.

“But nobody deserves it quite like Ron Barassi.

“He didn’t just play the game - he reshaped it.

“And how fitting that last night’s game was a cliffhanger between the Dees and the Blues.

“Vale Ron.”

During Saturday’s finals game between Adelaide Power and GWS Giants, players and spectators took a moment of silence to honour the late footballer.

AFL Chief Executive Officer Gillon McLachlan said he was always struck by Barassi’s enthusiasm for the game and its evolution.

“Ron Barassi always wanted to see the next development, the next step and the next achievement for footy, while loving the game and what it took to play at the highest level,” McLachlan said.

“He was fierce, challenging and determined and he loved most of all the next contest for the ball, and watched games with an eye for the skills of the game and the courage and desire to play it well.

“Every time in recent years when we would see him at the MCG watching a match, our game was better for his presence and we have lost a hero of our sport.

“On behalf of our clubs, our players, our fans and the game of Australian football, Ron Barassi has contributed more than an individual could possibly give to our sport and we give our deepest condolences to Cherryl, all members of the Barassi family and their many friends.”

Neil Roberts and Ron Barassi sharing a playful moment between friends.

Melbourne Football Club CEO Gary Pert said the beloved Demons legend was one of the game’s greatest names.

“Everyone at the Melbourne Football Club is extremely saddened to hear of Ron’s passing. We send our sympathies and condolences to Ron’s family and friends at this incredibly sad time,” Pert said.

“Ron was a much-loved character and friend to so many of us around the club which is why he will be so deeply missed.

“Ron was more than a player and coach. He was an icon of the game, and a true Melbourne person. His legacy will forever be etched in the history of the game.

“The entire football community has lost a giant, but Ron’s spirit and impact will live on through the game that he loved so dearly.”

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese shared his condolences following the news of Barassi’s death.

“There is no more famous name in football than Ron Barassi and there is no-one who gave more to the game that millions love,” Mr Albanese wrote on social media.

Ron Barassi was considered one of the AFL greats. Picture: Supplied

“Ron Barassi was a legend in every sense of the word.

“A fearless player and leader, a visionary coach and a tireless champion for the growth and success of Australian rules football.

“Ron’s name and his legacy will be remembered as long as footy is played.

“May he rest in peace.”

Federal MP Zoe Daniels also shared her memories of the legendary ALF player.

“Feeling the loss of Ron Barassi,” she said.

“An old friend of my dad’s from a different era of football, yet an enduring legend. Thoughts are with Ron’s family tonight.”

The late Ron Barassi (left) with Robert DiPierdomenico.

Comedian Anthony “Lehmo” Lehmann said Barassi was “a legend”.

“Sure he won six flags as a player and four as a coach but his contribution to this country goes way beyond that,” he said.

Barassi was named captain of the Demons’ Team of the Century, won two club best and fairest trophies and earned All-Australian honours on three occasions.

Originally published as AFL great Ron Barassi dies peacefully surrounded by family