Frank became active in the club in 1984 through his good friend Val Van Hauen. Both were old boys of the college and quickly became actively involved, even though both did not have sons playing and were in their 50’s. Frank in particular rolled his sleeves up and became club secretary from 1987 until 1992. Interestingly 1987, the same year as I became then president of St Bedes O.C. Frank has been a confidant since that time and offer tremendous advice and support. He was also our VAFA member for many more years and helped develop our identity with the VAFA. Frank remained a committee person until just three years ago when he fell ill.
Frank may have lost the battle with cancer, but his mind was never beaten. He had a great passion and vision for the club and was with us for ever step, even through his illness.
Frank new his destiny and rang me just before Christmas. We spoke about the club among other things and its future, his love of the club remained as strong as it had ever been. At the time he wished everyone, “All the best” and he meant it!
Our famous secretary, timekeeper, game weather reporter, melways reference for the ground never failed to entertain everyone with a short……………………………………story on a Thursday night. Those nights have never been quite the same without young Frank.
It was an honour to have been a friend of Frank Kean. I’m sure people will agree.
So on Frank’s behalf, he asked me to send his best to the troops. I understood what he meant at the time. He sincerely did wish us all – the best.
Dale Collins
President