Sir Zelman Cowen was a St Kilda man at heart and never forgot the suburb where he was born.
As a boy at St Kilda Park Primary School he was also a Saints fan from a very young age.
Sir Zelman, who died on Thursday 8 December, is remembered as a great Australian in his role of Governor-General, but he was a man who had special importance for St Kilda Football Club.
While he happily confessed to having little sporting prowess, he always followed the fortunes of the Saints.
Although his career took him to other parts of Australia and also overseas, he could still be found watching the Saints from the terraces at both Junction and Moorabbin Ovals whenever he was in Melbourne.
In 1992, Sir Zelman was delighted to accept the honour of being the St Kilda Football Club’s Patron and held that title for many years.
He was also the Club’s number-one ticket holder.
Later in life he suffered from Parkinson's disease but could still be seen attending St Kilda games with his family, including the Club’s recent Grand Final appearances.
Sir Zelman Cowen is survived by his wife Lady Anna, sons Rabbi Dr Shimon Cowen, Nick and Ben and daughter Kate.
A state funeral is expected to be held week commencing 12 December.
