The following was taken from the East Ringwood Football Club Facebook Page and is written by Russ Read.
Brian is and will always be a Legend at East Ringwood Football Club.
His contribution will be there for future generations who use the CooperSmith Pavilion and also see the former Maroondah Sports Club building on the East Ringwood Reserve.
Brian began his time as a player in the heady days of the Fred Cook era and has been involved in almost every way to be involved as a player, committee man, and behind the scenes mover of so much that has gone on at East.
Brian used his contacts in the Construction Industry to see the construction of the East Ringwood Sporting Club (Maroondah Sports Club) and saw many alterations and extensions to this Community Asset because of his drive and enthusiasm.
Behind the scenes his company was involved in the construction of many of the club’s players first homes and his Christmas visits to the homes of players with gifts for their children will always be remembered by so many still around the club.
His drive and enthusiasm was recognised by the East Ringwood Sporting Club by making him a Life Member at its opening and he was the President of that organisation until quite recently for all of those years.
So many of his behind the scenes actions – both group and individual problem solving – will never be known but there are so many private involvements with so many East families that will always be deeply appreciated by them.
Brian and his family have always been strong supporters of many Community Groups and his strong support both directly and personally with Maroondah Hospital has been well recognised.
Brian and the CooperSmith family have been recognised by the City of Maroondah by naming the upgraded facility which is now enjoyed by Sporting Groups using the East Ringwood Reserve by naming the building as “ The CooperSmith Pavilion” as a tribute to a lifetime of giving to our Community.
Brian was awarded an OAM for his services to our community and he was made a Freeman of the City of Maroondah in recognition of his continuous community involvement.
There is much more that would reveal his love of our club and the people around it over so many years and so much will only be known to those he personally helped but his legacy to our club and community will always be remembered gratefully forever.
Sadly life deals us all one destination and it is with the deepest of regret we see Brian has now reached that time.
We extend to Chris, Brett, Amy and their families our most sincere thanks for allowing us to share so much of his life.
VALE BRIAN MAURICE COOPERSMITH A LIFE VERY WELL LIVED.