Dr. Percy De Zilwa, the oldest Trinitian in Melbourne, passed away on March 10th 2011 at the age of ninety four. He was one of the founder members of the Melbourne Trinity Family Foundation and played a leading part in our organization over the past thirty six years.
He had a distinguished career at Trinity, participating in many school activities and excelling in his studies and sport. He was also an enthusiastic member of the school choir and the secretary of the Glee Club, working closely with the legendary Miss Valesca Reimann, a much-loved teacher from Australia whom Percy greatly admired.
Percy’s entry into Medical College at the age of 17 deprived him of the opportunity to represent the school at rugby. However, he went on to reach great heights on the rugby field, culminating in his being selected to play for Ceylon. His exploits and brilliance at rugby have been extensively covered in the sporting pages of Sri Lanka. Clippings from the thirties to the present day reveal that he was arguably the best centre three-quarter of the thirties. As always he carried these distinctions with grace and humility.
What was most obvious to all of us was Percy’s passion for Trinity and our Melbourne O.B.A. He was our General Secretary for several years, sang in the choir at all our carol services, never missed a function and always turned up wearing his Trinity tie. He was a leader in all our activities, most notably the student exchange programme between Wesley College, Melbourne, and Trinity, and the launch of the Valesca Reimann Scholarship through the Dust-to-Dust fund.
Percy was particularly helpful to young Trinitians who arrived from Sri Lanka. He would register them under his private health insurance at his own cost, and acted as their official guardian during their stay in Australia. At events held by the TCK Family Foundation Percy was always seen walking up to the younger Trinitians, introducing himself and getting to know them. His characteristic greeting was, "Hello, I’m Percy." He had the unique combination of knowledge, wisdom and humility that was able to accommodate diverse opinions and different generations. The respect and affection that he earned by his labours of love, sincerity and steadfast purpose were richly deserved.
Percy shared a memorable story with us about his very first meeting with his professor at Medical College. After a brief conversation the professor commented, "Percy, you must be a Trinitian." "Yes, Sir," said Percy, "but how did you know?" The Professor famously replied, "I can always tell a Trinitian."
Percy’s thoughts were with Trinity right to the end, and shortly before he died, he wanted a message to be conveyed. "Give my love to the Trinitians," he said, "and may they always maintain their unity and harmony." Percy was indeed the definitive Trinitian. May his soul Rest in Peace.
(Based on the tribute of Kusal Halpe at the funeral service of Dr. Percy De Zilwa on March 16th 2011)
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