Dickie Hermon – message to membership
Dear Fellow Trinitians,
It is with deep sadness that we share the news of the passing of Richard “Dickie” Hermon on the 16th of February, 2025, after a brief illness. The Trinity OBA in Melbourne extends its deepest condolences to his family and loved ones during this difficult time.
Dickie, who attended Trinity from 1952 to 1958, was an exceptional sportsman. He represented Trinity in Rugby and Athletics, earning his colours in both. At just 14 years old, he played for the TCK 1st XV team—a testament to his remarkable talent. A proud ‘Alisonian,’ he captained the House Rugby team, competed in Athletics, Boxing, and Hockey, and served as the House Touring Club Secretary. Beyond sports, he was actively involved in the choir, the cadet corps—rising to the rank of Senior Cadet—and was also a Patrol Leader in the Scouts.
Fondly known as “Dickie,” he was a steadfast supporter of Trinity and the Melbourne OBA. From the very early days of the organization, he was generous both financially and with his time—often opening his home to Trinity gatherings and regularly attending Melbourne OBA events. He was forthright in his opinions—never afraid to call a spade a spade—but he always placed friendships above personal views.
A Legacy of Generosity
Dickie’s deep connection to his alma mater is beautifully underscored by his final bequest. In his own words:
“With regard to the bequest to my Alma Mater, Trinity College Kandy, Sri Lanka, which has given me an education, equipped me for life, and sent me out as an all-round man that could take my place in society, prosper in two countries, and be happy—accumulating sufficient funds to repay her in a small way. I am leaving money for the benefit of the Rugby Gym (which we never had) and Rugby in general, as well as for the completion of the unique Trinity Chapel renovation. Any additional funds leftover should be used towards any existing or newly created scholarship fund, enabling a boy of exceptional ability in Academics, Sports, or the Arts to enter Trinity and contribute to the school’s betterment—just as I was privileged to do, simply because my parents had the means to provide me with a Trinity education. I am immensely proud and humbled to have been a Trinitian. Respice Finem.“
A Life of Service and Honor
After his years at Trinity, Dickie became a planter before migrating to Australia in the 1970s, where he built a successful career in insurance broking. Alongside his professional journey, he had a deep passion for the military and served with distinction in the Australian Army Reserves, attaining the rank of Major. His contributions were marked by honor and dedication, and his service will be fondly remembered by all who knew him.
We will all miss him dearly, but his life leaves an indelible mark, and his legacy will continue to guide and inspire future generations of Trinitians.
Final Farewell
His funeral will be held on Tuesday, the 4th of March 2025, at 11:45am at Lilydale Memorial Park, 126-128 Victoria Road, Lilydale. The service will commence at 11:45am, followed by burial and refreshments.
For those who cannot attend in person, the service will be available virtually via the following link: Link to Richard Hermon Funeral service
For those attending in person, it would be fitting to wear your Trinity ties as we bid farewell to a true Trinitian.
Rest in peace, Dickie
