ON Anzac Day this year Max Hammond will finally be reunited with the fallen soldiers he fought alongside.
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The 100-year-old passed away after a brief battle with illness on Tuesday night.
His second wife Berta was by his side.
Mr Hammond's daughter Jenny Cahoon said her father was an incredible man.
"He's left a great legacy for us all," she said.
"We all feel so much better for having had him in our lives."
Mrs Cahoon said her father always looked forward to Anzac Day, acknowledging it was a sad day but also a chance to remember his mates.
"He led the march last year with his grandkids and he was very proud," she said.
Mr Hammond's sister Helen Raw said she had many fond memories of spending time with her older brother growing up in Warrnambool.
"He will be remembered for his kindness," she said.
Mrs Raw said her older brother taught her how to swim and how to ride a bike.
Warrnambool RSL president John Miles said Mr Hammond was a true gentleman.
"He was a much-loved man who will be missed by all," Mr Miles said.
Mr Hammond will be remembered as a generous man who dedicated his life to his country, his family and his community.
He was quick-witted, loved playing bowls and driving his beloved 2017 green Holden Commodore SS.
Member for Wannon Dan Tehan paid tribute to Mr Hammond, who enlisted in 1940 and served time in Syria, El Alamein, Labuan and Borneo.
"I had the great honour of attending Max's last birthday," Mr Tehan said.
"It will be with a heavy heart that we commemorate Anzac Day this year because of the passing of Max."
Mr Tehan said Mr Hammond was selfless, not only serving his country but also serving the community he lived in.
Mr Hammond was born on December 4, 1918, in Warrnambool.
He was the first son of Harold and Hebe Hammond and was the eldest of seven children.
He had three sisters - Margaret, Wilma and Helen - and three brothers - Wally, Edward and Peter.
Mr Hammond attended Warrnambool Primary School and Warrnambool High School before leaving school at the age of 14 to start work with the Atlantic Union Oil Company, which later become known as Esso Australia.
In 1946, Mr Hammond married Betty Cusack and the couple had three children - Jennifer, Rodney and Grant.
Mr Hammond is a grandfather to nine and great grandfather to 12 great grandchildren.
He will be laid to rest at the Christ Church Anglican Church at 11am on Monday.
A Monday service was requested by Mr Hammond to ensure his Tuesday bowls mates could attend.
Mr Hammond's beloved Holden will lead the funeral procession.
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