JOHN GRAEME (GRAEME) DANKS (OW1967)
18/03/1949 – 05/05/2023
Graeme’s story at Wesley began in 1961, following in the footsteps of his father John (OW1944) and great-grandfather Aaron (OW1872) who was elected President of the OWCA in 1919. During his time at Wesley, he formed strong and cherished bonds with many friends in the classroom, the pool and through community service. He excelled in athletics, swimming and triathlon and thoroughly enjoyed being the school electrician, organising microphones for assemblies and performances.
After school, Graeme completed an economics degree and started working at the warehouse of the family business, John Danks & Son. Graeme spent his working career building the hardware industry in Australia and innovating many retail and wholesale firsts for the industry. Finishing as Managing Director when the business was sold to Woolworths, he led the company in the esteemed nature that he was known for, with hard work, dedication and grace.
Graeme bled purple and gold for many years after leaving school. His three daughters – Penny (OW1997), Emily (OW2000) and Belinda (OW2004) – were lucky enough to follow in his footsteps, this time at the Glen Waverley campus. Graeme’s true passion for the school was demonstrated by his involvement with the OWCA and later, as a Council member from 1999 to 2010. He acted in many roles, sitting on the property committee and later, served as Chair of the Nominations Committee.
His humble, loving and dedicated approach to all ventures in his life truly set him apart and his legacy will shine brightly through his wife Jenny, his three daughters and six grandchildren.
