The Warrnambool and Werribee communities are mourning the loss of Herbert “Herb” Barlow, a cherished husband, father, grandfather, and passionate supporter of local sports.
Herb passed away on August 2, 2025, at St John of God Hospital in Warrnambool, surrounded by his loving family at the age of 70.
Herb Barlow was a True Local Hero who was Born and Raised in Victoria
He was a devoted husband to his wife, Jenny, and a proud father to his children, Herb and Siobhan.
His grandchildren, Declan, Michael, Dom, and Maisie, brought him enormous joy, and he was a continuous presence in their lives.
Herb’s warmth spread beyond his family, touching everyone he met with his jolly laugh and genuine care.
Brad Hazelman, a friend, shared a heartfelt tribute:
“Condolences to you all on the passing of your beloved Dad, Herb. It was always a pleasure chatting with him, and most of all, having a great laugh. He will be sadly missed by all. Thoughts with each and every one of you.”
Via Facebook
Herb’s love for sports was a part of his life, as he was a proud supporter of the Werribee Football Club, standing by his friend Mick through his time at the club and beyond.
The Barlow family’s commitment to Werribee continued through their sponsorship of North Warrnambool midfielder Jackson Grundy, which shows a love for Herb’s belief in promoting young talent.
The North Warrnambool Eagles Football Netball Club announced Herb’s passing on August 5 via social media, sharing their heartfelt sorrow:
“The NWEFNC extends our heartfelt condolences to the Barlow Family on the passing of Herb Barlow. Our thoughts and prayers are with Herb, Declan, Michael, Dom, and Maisie Barlow and their families. Deepest sympathies to you all. 💙💛”
Via Facebook
To honor Herb’s memory, the Werribee Football Club will wear black armbands during their final home match against Southport on Saturday.
This gesture represents the respect and admiration that the club holds for a man who was more than just a supporter and a family.
Barlow was Also a Respected Health Professional
Outside his passion for sports, Herb was a highly regarded dentist who trained in Shepparton, Victoria.
His work as a health professional earned him the trust and admiration of his patients, like Gina Sozzi, a former patient who wrote,
“I’m so sorry to have just heard of Dad’s passing. He was such a great man and my dentist when I was younger. Thinking of you all. He will be missed. 💙 Gina.”
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Herb’s care and professionalism, from sports to his occupation, have left a lasting impression on those he served.
Moreover, Herb’s life was filled with adventures and connections that reached far above Australia.
Brenda Palmer, a friend from his time in the UK, shared a touching memory:
“The best years of my life were when Herb lived next door to me in the UK with his beautiful wife, Jen. I will always remember him with a smile as I think of us all in Paris and Plymouth, Devon, on our holidays together. The joy when he arrived on my doorstep many years later with Dom (the Pom), no longer a baby but a gorgeous grown man. So sad to hear this news. Thinking of you all.”
Via Facebook
Herb’s power to create lifelong friendships, no matter the distance, shows his outstanding character.
The Love and Support Following Herb’s Passing have been Overwhelming
His son, Herb, shared details of the funeral service, expressing thankfulness for the community’s kindness.
The service will be held at St Brendan’s Catholic Church, 123 Knight Street, Shepparton, on Thursday, August 14, at 1:00 p.m.
It will be a time for family, friends, and the community to come together to celebrate Herb’s extraordinary life.
Herb Barlow’s death has broken the hearts of many, but his legacy of love, laughter, and community spirit will last forever.
Whether he was cheering from the sidelines, caring for his patients, or sharing stories with friends, Herb lived life with purpose and joy.
His memory will continue to inspire those who knew him, from the fields of Warrnambool to the streets of Shepparton and further.
As the community gathers to say their final goodbyes, they do so with gratitude for the time they had with Herb.
