He was 80.

Kelly was a long-serving Koroit Football Netball Club committeeman, assistant secretary, property steward and team manager when it won its first two Hampden Football Netball League senior premierships in 1971 and 1973.

Kelly was a fierce Essendon supporter and a member of the Warrnambool Bombers supporters group for years.

He was also heavily involved with the Koroit Cricket Club, filling roles on its committee and as the senior scorer.

Both Koroit sporting clubs acknowledged his administration skills, commitment, passion and many hours of volunteer work by awarding him life membership despite him not playing competitively for either club.

Kelly worked with Nestles in Dennington for more than 43 years.

He retired in 1997 but continued in his role as a member of the Warrnambool Mozart Choral Group for over 50 years.

Nestles presented Kelly with a gold watch for 25 years’ service, a top-of-the-range television following 40 years with the company and a cheque on his retirement to recognise his dedication and hard work over a long period of time.

He spent his early education at Illowa Primary School until grade three.

Kelly then transferred to St Patrick’s School in Koroit before leaving school at the age of 14.

He started work with Leo Kenshole’s hardware shop in Koroit, spending two years learning about the workforce there before moving to Nestles.

Kelly is survived by his wife of 45 years Margaret and children.

The passionate sports fan’s funeral will take place at St Pius Catholic Church, Warrnambool, at 1pm on Monday.