Heartbroken family and friends packed the Minerdome Stadium yesterday to bid farewell to “champion bloke” Adam Jenkins, who died suddenly last week at the age of 39.
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Almost 1,000 mourners heard eulogies remembering a talented footballer, devoted partner, adored father and a much loved son.
Childhood friends, his partner Angie, daughter, and his brother and sister all rose to speak alongside a coffin decked with lilies, a North Ballarat Roosters shirt and a spirit level in tribute to Mr Jenkins’ work as a tradesman.
Speaking first, Mr Jenkins’ long-standing friend Shane Snibson spoke affectionately of a “lively kid” from a tight-knit family who began playing for his beloved Sebastopol Football and Netball Club at under 12s level.
The former St Aloysius Parish School pupil was an “outdoorsy” kid who loved yabbying and fishing. His promising football career was cut short prematurely and he had battled with Crohn's disease but Mr Snibson said he “always fought to come back out on top.”
He finished his eulogy with the words of Neil Young: “It’s better to burn out than fade away, my my, hey hey”.
Mr Jenkin’s partner Angie also spoke, remembering him as her “rock” and “soulmate”, as well as his kindness and dedication to his family.
“You have blessed me with three such beautiful children,” she said. “I will love you forever, Tradie.”
His sister Kim and his brother Sam recalled their childhood, his sense of fun, his ever changing music tastes, and his recent years as a “devoted” and “hands-on” dad.
Reflecting on Mr Jenkins football career, long-time Sebastopol club member Chris Parker spoke of “a champion player, a champion bloke and a champion family”.
A talented, quick footballer, he played several seasons with North Ballarat Roosters and was known for his commitment, passion and good attitude.
Although blighted by injury, he still picked up several best and fairest accolades for each of the three clubs he played for. “He always put the team first and played harder than his body was able to cope with,” said Mr Parker. “Rest in peace, mate.”
His eulogy was followed by a reading by Mr Jenkins’ friend Katie Burt.
Mr Jenkins was a huge music fan and several of the songs he most loved were played at the funeral including Bliss n Eso's Moments and his favourite tune Jumper by Third Eye Blind.
To the soundtrack of The Killers’ Mr. Brightside, a large guard of honour gathered – many of them wearing the blue and yellow of Sebastopol Football Club – lining the stadium as pallbearers carried Mr Jenkins’ coffin for its final journey.
Mr Jenkins leaves behind his parents, David and Maree, his sister Kim and brother Sam, partner Angie and their three children Archina, Flynn and India, as well as a daughter Isabella from a previous relationship.
