Vale Ricky Bannister

Ricky Bannister and wife Emily

Ricky Bannister and wife Emily

Ricky Bannister, the well-known industry figure tragically injured in a horse riding accident just over a year ago, has passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family. Bannister, brother of AFL umpire Jordan Bannister, suffering a major spinal injury after breaking his neck during the fall. He lived long enough to see his one year old son William celebrate his first birthday, then passed away the following day. The former Heidelberg account manager spent 18 years with the company and is well known in the Victorian print community. Heidelberg says the family are distraught and have asked for patience and understanding while they come to terms with their loss. Since the April accident Bannister fought to regain his strength, supported by family and friends and the printing industry, which managed to raise more than $54,000 to pay for ongoing care and renovations to his home. He sadly passed away at 8:45am on Friday, September 5, with family around him. Tributes are flooding in via social media, many celebrating Bannister’s larrikin spirit, laughs and pranks, and extending condolences to the family. Former colleague Bill Wall writes, “Coaching, selling and and working alongside you made for great company and was never dull. “Behind your cavalier approach to life and larrikin love of a practical joke was someone who always strove to be the best at everything you chose to do. I am deeply saddened by your passing.” Heidelberg says, “We have lost a member of our family and will forever be grateful for the memories we have all shared with him. “Live for today, have a beer for Rick and remember him for the cheeky bugger who made us all laugh.”

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