FORMER Ballarat mayor Kenneth Crago Webb was labelled an "extraordinary man" in a moving memorial service at St Andrew's Uniting Church yesterday.
Up to 300 people paid tribute to the former city leader and local stalwart, who died on Sunday at the age of 85.
Mr Webb, who served on the Ballarat City Council for 24 years, was remembered for a life of dedication to the Ballarat community, his business partnerships and his family.
Son Alan Webb said his father was a compassionate and generous man who was passionate about the region in which his father was born and bred.
He said Mr Webb served as a member of numerous committees and, in 1973, was awarded an OBE in the Queen's Birthday Honours.
"He accomplished everything in his 85 years," he said.
"This is a celebration of his life. He has left an indelible mark on this city and on our lives.
"I believe we are all better people for our association and involvement with an extraordinary man."
In leading the service, Reverend Robert Fowler said Mr Webb had a life that was "used well".
"This community is poorer for his death as his contribution to Ballarat through his work and his service and involvement in numerous organisations and sporting groups was considerable," he said.
"He was a symbol of the life of this community."
Mr Webb was involved in countless organisations and groups, including the then Ballaarat Children's Home, McCallum House, Ballarat Water Commission and Sewerage Authority, Municipal Association of Victoria and the Sovereign Hill board.
He was first elected to the Ballarat City Council in 1951 as representative for the Eureka ward and served until 1975, while leading the city as mayor in three one-year terms. Mr Webb is survived by his wife Olive, children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.