The LeasePlan Western Bulldogs is deeply saddened by the passing of Roslyn Smorgon, wife of President David Smorgon.
Roslyn Smorgon passed away at the age of 59 after a long and courageous five year battle with cancer. She was married to David for 39 years and is survived by three loving sons, Dean, Ricky and Dale along with three daughter-in-laws’ and six grandchildren.
Roslyn completed a Bachelor of Arts degree before spending much of her life assisting various community organisations with a particular focus on education, fundraising and women’s health issues.
In January 2006, Roslyn was awarded an AM for her services to the community, through fundraising and support for a range of Jewish, women’s health, arts and sporting organisations. She was also the chairperson of the Appeal for the Footscray Community Arts Centre as well as the inaugural chairperson of the “Bulldogs Belles” now known as Women of the West.
Roslyn has been actively involved as an executive member and board member for Mount Scopus College for over 30 years and is now a life governor of the school’s foundation.
In the last couple of years Roslyn raised significant money for Chairs at Monash University Australia Centre for Jewish Civilisation.
Roslyn and David were always a very effective partnership and Roslyn’s support and commitment to David in his range of business activities as well as his presidency of the Western Bulldogs since 1996, is well known.
Those who knew Roslyn would have described her as a real “do-er” who had the ability to connect to people at all levels and everyone knew where Ros stood on any issue.
She was as comfortable telling Chris Grant how to kick a goal as she was telling Cam (Campbell Rose) how to raise more money.
Western Bulldogs Chief Executive Campbell Rose said Roslyn was an outstanding lady, wonderful mother and one of the most charming people he had ever met.
“Her generosity and support of the Club and the red, white and blue was unlimited. She will be deeply missed by all at the Club and our members.
“Our thoughts and sympathies are with David and his family. She will leave a huge hole in the hearts of all who knew her,” Rose said.
David Smorgon will now be taking a leave of absence from the Western Bulldogs. During this time Vice-President Ian Veal will be acting-President.
Under Jewish religion the funeral will be held this evening.
