Despite his own 15-year battle with chronic myeloid leukaemia Greg Thurling was always thinking about helping others.
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Mr Thurling died suddenly on New Year’s Eve after spending Christmas with his family and six grandchildren.
He was diagnosed with leukaemia in 2001 and when he saw how tough other families in a similar situation were doing it, he approached the Leukaemia Foundation.
Mr Thurling, who founded Thurling's Financial Services in 1981, had income protection insurance and wanted to do something to help others with blood-related diseases, and their families.
He and Nina Field organised the first Leukaemia Golf Day in 2006 at Grange Golf Club, with the help of AMP and 16 of his clients. It has since raised close to $300,000.
Mr Thurling was not well enough to attend the 2015 event but told daughter Brooke Tallon-Henniker he was looking forward to the 10th anniversary.
The Leukaemia Foundation recently named a room at a Westmead children’s hospital accommodation facility after him.
Mr Thurling and Ms Field became friends and he was there for her during her battle with breast cancer. She said it was rare to meet someone like him.
“He never gave up and has inspired so many. He was an ambassador and no job was too hard. I will miss his honesty, friendship, kindness and … cheekiness,’’ she said.
‘’When things got tough he was always there to say a kind word … and make me laugh.”
Mr Thurling recently said he could not have survived so long without the incredible support of his wife Bev, daughter Brooke, son Mark and his brother John who gave him a bone marrow donation.
He said having so many wonderful grandchildren - Caley, Madison, Ebony, Kyla, and twins Dylan Gregory and Reece – also helped.
Mrs Thurling said they enjoyed a lovely Christmas together and losing him so suddenly was a shock.
“He loved and did everything for his family. He always had a cheeky smile and a bit of a joke no matter what. He just wanted to help everyone.”
Mrs Tallon-Henniker said he was so supportive. “He is just the most caring and generous man. He really was my hero. He always told everyone he was feeling terrific even though he wasn’t.
‘’He really is an amazing man. He really did give some hope to so many.”
Figgy Bowlo names its annual Classic Open Fours bowl tournament after Mr Thurling who recently played three games wearing a breathing mask.
His funeral is at 1pm on January 7 at Hansen and Cole, Kembla Grange. People are encouraged to wear bright clothes.
