ABOUT 1400 mourners filled St Andrew's Uniting Church yesterday to farewell Ballarat businessman, sportsman and family man Michael Troon.
Mr Troon died last Saturday after an eight-month battle with depression.
His brother Steve spoke about Mr Troon's passion for football, sailing and his family.
He was the North Ballarat Football Club premiership captain in 1995, sailed in grand prix events all over Australia and had a family that was "the envy of all who knew him".
"He was a powerful, courageous and generous human being but above all he was my little brother," Steve said.
Mr Troon's wife Maxine described an amazing father who was "king of the kids".
She said they had amazing travel adventures together, including trekking in the Golden Triangle, heli-skiing in New Zealand, surfing in Bali and a White Christmas in Austria.
"We were so lucky we got the best of him," Maxine said.
"Life doesn't feel the same without Mike in it and I'm so very proud to be his wife."
A private cremation preceded the funeral service.
If you are experiencing difficulties in your life, contact Lifeline on 131114.