Phil Holian, pictured here in 2008, was laid to rest last week. 24813 Picture: DAMJAN JANEVSKI
By Vanessa Chircop
FORMER Hobsons Bay Highway Patrol Sergeant Phillip Holian was last week remembered as a loving family man and dedicated police officer.
He was laid to rest with full police honours at St Leo the Great Catholic Church after losing his battle with cancer at age 54.
Hobsons Bay Inspector Bill Mathers described his former colleague as a role model.
“He influenced a large amount of people in the community and will leave a legacy of professionalism and leadership,” he said.
“He will be very sadly missed.
“He was also a role model in the way he battled his illness with such dignity and respect.
“Phil will be remembered not just by his colleagues at the police but by the community as a whole who held him in very high regard.”
Sgt Holian worked in Hobsons Bay for more than 20 years and was officer in charge of the Highway Patrol Unit until he retired.
Inspector Mathers said he was involved in many community initiatives including the Road Safety Committee and was instrumental in taking hoon drivers off the road.
Hobsons Bay councillors also noted Sgt Holian’s contribution to the community at last week’s council meeting.
Councillor Angela Altair described Sgt Holian’s passing as tragic.
“I understand he was a Willy boy who used to play local footy,” she said.
“It’s just tragic – I know all his colleagues and all the councillors … would be very sad to hear that news.”
Cr Peter Hemphill also noted Sgt Holian’s contribution to the community.
“He was very passionate and very hard-working.”
Sgt Holian is survived by his wife Paula and his two children Robert and Laura.
