Craig Stewart, a popular former footy player, died at the age of 66, with Collingwood and Richmond leading the honours.
Stewart appeared in 115 games for the Magpies between 1978 and 1983 before being traded to the Tigers, where he appeared in 35 games.
He is also the father of Essendon player James Stewart, whom the GWS Giants drafted in 2012.
The Collingwood Football Club’s board, management, staff, coaches, and players wish to record their gratitude for Craig’s outstanding service to the club,’ the Magpies stated.
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The Tigers tweeted: ‘Richmond is mourning the passing of former tall defender, Craig Stewart. Stewart played 35 senior and 17 reserve games for the club between 1984-86, after transferring from Collingwood.’
Stewart joined Collingwood in 1978 with a strong reputation having won Preston’s best and fairest prize in the VFA the year prior.
He was mainly used in attack, but his versatility meant he could also play in the ruck and down back, endearing himself to fans.
Stewart was a mainstay in Tom Hafey’s formidable team and was the winner of the best first-year player award before being part of the 1980 and 1981 grand final sides.
The former Magpie won his club’s best and fairest award twice before heading to Punt Road in 1984, in which he largely played as a defender.
His relationship with the Pies became strained later in life when he criticised the club for snubbing his son James as a possible father-son recruit.