It was an outstanding achievement, but it could never match his love for wife Raelene and their daughters Rebecca, Sarah, Kristy and Laura.

"He loved Raelene and always said what a wonderful wife and mother she was," great mate Robert "Possum" Purtle told the gathering.

"He was so proud of his girls. He loved nothing better than watching his girls at netball."

His brother Ian let everyone know early what Neil's priorities were.

"(It) centred around his family, his family, his family," he said amid laughs from the congregation, adding though everyone would have been on the receiving end of Neil's tricks. "(He was) a funny bugger as well."

Rebecca, Sarah, Kristy and Laura are all A grade premiership players. Proud Pigeons, just like dad.

Three of the girls spoke about the characteristics of a leader.

"Whatever situation you found yourself in, you always treated people the same."

When Neil passed away last Saturday night after battling a number of long-time health issues, people spoke about his leadership.

"He was a friend to everyone, enemy to no-one," Robert Purtle said

"By far the biggest personal contribution to the community was the achievement when you were instrumental in organising the saving of ADI (Mulwala munitions business, where Neil worked for many years)."

"It's something most locals will never forget."

Around 7000 marched to save the business, which has employed so many people.

It's a shame COVID-19 restricted numbers to 50 because Neil's farewell had the potential to be one of Yarrawonga's biggest with some just wanting to say, 'thanks'.

During a pictorial tribute to Neil, John Williamson's True Blue was played at Yarrawonga's St Cuthbert's Anglican Church.

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It was fitting for the true gentleman with the unique ability to make everyone feel special.

"Dad, we'll miss your chats, your super tight hugs, that huge smile and your passion for life."