You were a shining light Herk. You made my mornings and afternoons even brighter with our desk chats and treadmill catch ups over the many many years at Rampage. I’m so unbelievably sad you’ve left your family too soon and hope to one day, catch up again on the other side. My deepest condolences to the entire family xx

50 50 will be the last time I will hear it Herky and your Dad gave me that name so I will cherish the memories we have had as a family member on the outside but always been thought of as part of your family, rest now my friend love to your family

Thinking of you all and extending deepest sympathy

An absolute shock!! To Jenny and family....Herky was our Dad in those original days at Mckee. He was an awesome trainer to me and lots of other recruits and was a very patient and understanding man with people. We had some great days working there and had a lot of fun. RIP Herky. I will treasure those memories. Millsy.

Herk, you are one of a kind, I have so many great memories visiting all you special O’Connors at Record St when growing up. There was so much love, laughing , fun banter with a few sherbets along the way, great family singalongs, very special times embedded in my memory. I last saw you and dads send off just over 5years ago & you gave me a huge hug & told me my dad was a bloody good buggar, and I echo this for you a highly regarded champion bloody good buggar who will be deeply missed by many and you’ll always hold a special place in my heart. RIP Herk & am sure Ellie Brian Honga & Dad will look after you.

my heart is with you all .... in the celebration of Herkys life and the rich memories we all have .. a beautiful man whom touched so many of us.

To Jenny and family, Erin and John and family, Moiz and family, Snoz and Tommo and family Not a lot of time spent with Herky but every family event we did share in with him, was memorable and fun-filled…a very happy family man. “Those we can no longer hold in our arms, we can always hold in our hearts.” Here for you all x

Herky, you were like the “fun dad” to all of us as teens, letting us all congregate and do teenage things at your house on the weekend, giving everyone a hard time but in reality providing us a safe place. What a huge loss for the family. My heartfelt condolences to Jenny, Ellie, Twiggy & Regan, and all the family added since I knew you. Your legacy will live on through them.

Herk, It is with shock and sadness I'm sat writing this to a dear Club mate from Snr 3rd Fitzroy RFC days. What a man both on and off the field. A man with a great big heart. Sadly I'll miss the chance to have a chat over a beer on visits to NZ now. RIP mate, regards to all the family .

I will never forget the encouragement you gave me Herky. We trained and swam the flannagan cup together but before that were Fitzroy Clubbies together. RIP. To Jenny and the many family members, my heartfelt condolences to you all. Brenda ❤️