John Colbert (SPC 1944-47)

We extend our deepest sympathy to the extended family of Old Collegian John Colbert (SPC 1944-47) who passed away peacefully on October 27, 2020 aged 90.

John came to St Patrick’s on a scholarship from the family farm at Watchem with his brothers Patrick (SPC 1945-48, PY1950) and Vincent (SPC 1951-55).

John helped celebrate the College’s 125^th anniversary in 2018 by attending our special St Patrick’s Day luncheon and this beautiful photo was taken of John, pictured above, in the College’s front gardens.

John attended SPC from intermediate to matriculation and was actively involved in College life. In his matric year, he was awarded the Christian Doctrine scholastic prize and received the Barbeta Cup for the Open Handball Champion.

John was also involved in the Galvin House senior football premiers team, McCarthy House senior cricket premiers side, music and was part of the wrestling championship side. John’s brother Patrick tragically drowned at Lake Wendouree in an accident in 1948. John returned to the farm after leaving school and lived for farming. He was heavily involved in community endeavours as well as with the Donald Shire for over 20 years and the Victorian Farmers Federation (VFF).

He was also involved with the Watchem Race Committee and enjoyed catching up with fellow Old Boys at the Pakenham races back in the day. John and his wife Mary (dec) had a big family of 10 children and their son Chris is now working the family farm.

John moved into aged care only a few short months ago and was still driving the header into his late 80s. Chris said his father enjoyed the opportunity to see the Melbourne Cup trophy travelling through the Birchip township during its recent country tour in early October. Rest in peace.