In Loving Memory – Bill Trueman (OH ’58)

Bill sadly passed away after a short illness on Monday evening. Our thoughts are with Bill’s wife Sue, his daughters Fiona and Lindy and their families.

Bill commenced as a student in 1946, going on to serve as a Vice Captain of Allen House, an Under Officer in Cadets, a member of the First XVIII and a School Probationer. After School he went on to the University of Melbourne where he studied Commerce and joined the University RAAF Squadron, graduating as Pilot Officer.

Returning to his alma mater in 1961 he joined the teaching staff at Brighton. One of his strengths was the personal and keen interest he took in the welfare of each of his students. He served as a Master in the Rendall Boarding House and became prominent as a Lieutenant in the School Cadet Corps.

Moving to the Keysborough Campus in the late 1960s, he was appointed the founding Head of Thomason House and later Newlands. He held the position of Head of Commerce for 26 years. Bill taught Accounting at Senior School level for 33 years, except for a year off in 1967, when he travelled overseas and taught at the Glasgow Academy.

Bill held a number of senior administrative posts and was made an Honorary Fellow of the OHA. He was noted for his meticulous ways in managing his teaching and administrative roles. His involvement in sports was unstinting as he coached cricket and football teams over a period of 37 years. His official contribution to Haileybury ended when he retired at the end of 1999.The unique levels of his dedication, professionalism and compassion were evident throughout his career, whether as teacher, Head of House or administrator. He was highly respected and is fondly remembered by his teaching friends and colleagues.

It was wonderful to see Bill enjoying his final Haileybury event on Friday 18 May at the Old Haileyburians Association Generations Breakfast. Bill made an extra special effort to attend with his wife Sue and Grandson, Will who is in year 3 at Brighton. It was a particularly proud moment for the family and one that will long live in our memories.

A memorial service will be held in the David Bradshaw Chapel at Haileybury Keysborough, 855 Springvale Rd, Keysborough on Tuesday 7 August at 4.45pm. Refreshments will be served following the service.

Vivat Haileyburia.