Vale Kenneth Frederick Cropper

4 September 1944 – 19 August 2024

It is with the deepest regret that The Rugby Club Foundation announces the passing of Ken Cropper on 19 August 2024 after a courageous and stoic battle against cancer and heart disease.

Born in Southport (Merseyside), England on 4 September 1944, Ken migrated to Australia in 1965 with his wife Sandra and daughter Sue.

When announcing Ken’s passing, his cherished and devoted daughter Sue Jago stated:

“Dad was truly one of a kind. He had three great loves: me, his granddaughter Ally, and Rugby. I’ve never met anyone who had as many friends as Dad did, spanning the globe and all connected through Rugby. He cherished ‘his boys’ from the Sydney Harlequins, who he managed through The Rugby Club in Sydney, and the Drummoyne Dirty Reds. He lived in his Wallaby jersey until his final day.

A dedicated businessman, Dad worked up until last week, ensuring that his customers were always taken care of. He taught me everything I know about business – most importantly, the value of honesty, integrity, and perseverance. His mantra was simple but powerful: never give up, do what it takes to succeed, and above all, have fun. Those were always his parting words to us: “Have fun”.

Dad, you truly lived your life with joy, and I have no doubt that you’ll continue to do so in heaven”.   

Ken was a staunch member and supporter of the Drummoyne District Rugby Football Club, his beloved ‘Dirty Reds’, throughout his life in Australia.  

He managed and coached several Drummoyne teams over the years, often in conjunction with his great mate and former All Black, the late John Dougan.

Ken was a member of The Rugby Club from 6 April 1989 up until his death. As a Director of the club between February 2006 and September 2015, Ken made a significant contribution to the Board and the administration of the club.

Ken was a founding member of Sydney Harlequins Rugby Football Club when that club was established out of The Rugby Club in 2004. He served on the Executive Committee of the Quins between December 2005 and February 2011

Quins President, Angus Bruxner said: “As one of the Quins’ founding fathers, Ken’s lifelong Rugby passion and experience, together with his ebullient personality and zest for life, resulted in his making an indelible contribution to the development of the Quins into the club it has been during the past 21 years and will continue to be in the future.”

Rohan Aalders, Quins Vice-President said: “Ken was definitely an integral part of the Quins and what made us the club we are”.

At Ken’s request, there was no funeral, and a private cremation has occurred. However, Sue asks that next time you are having a beer, have one for Ken.

May Ken rest in eternal peace.