The Transplant Australia community is saddened to hear of the passing of William (Bill) Trelease and we attend our deepest sympathies to Bill’s family and friends. We thank Jeffrey Sewell for preparing this tribute.
Bill represented Australia in the inaugural Transplant Cricket Test that was played against Great Britain in Adelaide during September 2004. He also was a member of the Australian Transplant Cricket Club’s first ever tour of England during 2006.
Bill was an integral member of that Tour, playing in both Tests and all three (3) One Day Internationals.
For all of us who have had the privilege of knowing Bill, we were enriched by his joy and passion for cricket which was infectious. He wore the “Baggy Green” with great pride.
Bill also was a terrific teammate on the tour. Upon learning of Bill’s passing, ATCC Captain of that Tour, Nick Harris, wrote to Gracie
“I am so very sorry to hear about Bill’s passing. Please accept my heartfelt condolences. I felt a strong bond with Bill, as he was the only other player from South Australia who played in those first two series…in Australia in 2004 and in England in 2006. He will be deeply missed, and I will always treasure those memories abroad with him.”
A major purpose of the UK Tour was to promote organ and tissue transplant awareness. On tour, Bill engaged in all Team functions and activities promoting that important cause.
Bill certainly celebrated his “second innings” in life, that was afforded to him by way of a renal transplant some 25 years ago. A life changing event for which he was truly grateful.
It was a privilege to have known Bill and to have shared some amazing experiences with him.
My deepest sympathy to Bill’s family and friends – particularly, his wife, Gracie, children and grand-children. May your memories of Bill be of comfort to you at this time.
In sympathy, Jeffery Sewell
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