By Esther Lauaki
Vance Hilton lived by the mantra, “service before self”.
The long-serving Melton Rotarian, athlete and public servant died in September after a battle with Parkinson’s.
His wife, Olga, wants to continue his charitable legacy through an auction next February to raise money for Parkinson’s Victoria.
A Rotarian for nearly 40 years, Mr Hilton served at every level of the organisation locally and internationally after joining the Stawell branch in 1979.
His community service in other groups and sports clubs locally and across the state was just as extensive.
In 2006, Mr Hilton was honoured with an Order of Australia Medal for his service to youth, athletics and a range of charitable organisations.
Son-in-law Anthony Walsh said Mr Hilton had led “a life well lived in the service of others”.
“Vance led a wonderful life accompanied by Olga and crammed more into his 83 years than some believe humanly possible,” Mr Walsh said.
“His commitment to Rotary, his travel, his work at home and his devotion to Olga are traits of a man who lived his life to the full.
“He was a man who was trustworthy and had old-fashioned values where his word was his bond. Vance was a rarity in modern times.”
Among items to be auctioned next year will be a limited edition tie Mr Hilton brought back from the Rotary International centenary in the US. Details: 0418 564 273
