IT WAS WITH much sadness that the Melbourne Football Club late last week farewelled one of its ‘Heroes’ - Gerald ‘Terry’ Gleeson.   
 
A member of the 1955 and 1956 premiership sides, Gleeson was part of a very special era, and central to our club’s heritage. 
 
Growing up in New South Wales, Gleeson learned the game from his time at St Patrick’s, Ballarat, and ultimately made his way to Melbourne, where he made his senior debut in 1953, and played in the 1955 and 1956 premiership sides. 
 
In tribute to his dedication, Gleeson won the Best Clubman award in 1955. 
 
While there was strong competition for time in the ruck, particularly with the dominance of ‘Big Bob’ Johnson, Gleeson persevered and made the most of his time at all levels.  He was appointed captain of the Seconds in 1959.
 
Reaching the 100-game milestone at the end of 1962, which coincided with his being awarded Life Membership, Gleeson retired soon after. 
 
In future years, he would split his time between Victoria and New South Wales, where he was based, and in 2008, he was named as one of the Club’s ‘Heroes’ for its 150th birthday.
 
Gleeson was the older brother of Brian, who won the 1957 Brownlow Medal with St Kilda.

We pass on our most sincere sympathies to his family and friends, and will always treasure him as part of the red and blue family.
 
A notice was placed by the Club in the Herald Sun and Age over the weekend. 

Relatives and friends are invited to attend GERALD'S funeral to be held at St. Peter Chanel Catholic Church, Futuna Street, Hunters Hill this Wednesday morning (February 23, 2011), Funeral Mass commencing at 10.30 a.m. followed by a private cremation.