ASH Wednesday survivor, burns victim campaigner and Victorian Senior Citizen of the Year, Ranald Webster, died in his Pakenham home last week from bowel cancer.
The 88-year-old former firefighter became the face of Ash Wednesday after sustaining horrific burns to 35 per cent of his body fighting the February 16, 1983 fires in Cockatoo.
The air force veteran defied the predictions of doctors who gave him just a 4 per cent chance of survival and went on to devote his time to counselling burns victims in the Alfred hospital.
Speaking to the Leader, a Victorian Newspaper, on Friday, daughter Gail Maas said her father was an amazing and strong man.
“He and mum felt they had so much support from the community and even from strangers that they wanted to give back to the community,” Ms Maas said.
“We were all very proud of him.
“He’s made a difference to so many people. He’s an inspiration.”
Together with wife Rae, the dedicated volunteer formed the Pakenham Volunteer Care Group and spent 15 years driving vision-impaired clients from Berwick and Pakenham to medical appointments.
A passionate musician, Mr Webster played organ for aged care residents around the region for many years.
Even macular degeneration and blindness in 2002 did not slow him down.
“He continued to do his work and help others right up until the end,” she said.
“He died peacefully at home, surrounded by family.”
Ms Maas said it was standing room only when hundreds flocked to pay their respects at Pakenham Uniting Church on Thursday.
He is survived by wife Rae, five of his six children, 11 grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.
