A former Melton mayor has been remembered by friends and family as a “kind, man’s man” who loved his community.
James McElroy, 66, died on October 8 after a long illness and was farewelled at a service in Melton on October 13.
The long-time Melton resident served as shire president from 1989 to 1990 and was the first mayor of the municipality in 1991.
He also served as Djerriwarrh Festival chairman.
Mr McElroy’s sister Patricia McKenzie told
Star Weekly of his great love for the community.
“Jim was very sociable and he was the kind of man who got along well with everybody it didn’t matter if you were a celebrity or the local gardener,” Ms McKenzie said.
“He and his wife Jacqueline moved to Melton in the 1970s and built their home and raised their children in the area.
“He saw things that needed to be done and wanted to be part of that process and that’s why he became involved with the Shire of Melton.
“He was the kind of person that … was able to relate to people on their level.”
Mr McElroy is survived by children Leigh and Alesha.
