Tributes have been pouring in for a Melbourne father-of-two who died suddenly while on holiday in Bali.
Zoran Vidovic, 53, a passionate and well-respected football coach and cricketer, from Geelong, was on the popular island last month when he unexpectedly died on January 28.
He was a much-loved member of the Bell Park Cricket Club where he captained the club’s third grade team and won the GCA2 thirds batting average during the 2021-22 season.
Mr Vidovic was also an assistant coach for the Bell Park Dragons in the Geelong Football League and a board member of the Bell Park Sport and Recreation Club.
His tragic death has left the close-knit sporting community “deeply affected”.
“The Bell Park Sport and Recreation Club extends its deepest sympathies to the Vidovic family in these challenging times, a sentiment deeply felt and shared by all our members,” a spokesman for the Bell Park Dragons said in a Facebook post.
“Our hearts and thoughts are with Bella, Lulu, Michelle (ex-wife), Rosa Vidovic (mother), Suzanne (sister), Nick Antonopoulos, and Zoran’s nephews, Aaron and Peter, as they navigate this period of mourning.”
He was described as having left an “indelible mark” on all who had the pleasure of knowing him.
“His steadfast dedication to our club shone brightly through his multifaceted involvement as a player, coach, fitness trainer, and administrator, playing a pivotal role in fostering a united and welcoming environment within our community.”
Details surrounding Mr Vidovic’s death are not known.
A GoFundMe page has been set up by Michael Lymer, a close friend of Mr Vidovic and teammate at the Bell Park cricket club.
So far, $21,777 has been raised to help bring Mr Vidovic’s body home.
“Zoran was a cherished member of our community, a beloved friend to many, and most importantly, a devoted father to his two daughters, Bella and Lulu,” Mr Lymer wrote on the page.
“His sudden departure has left us all in shock and grief, struggling to come to terms with this immense loss.”
Mr Lymer said his beloved friend was known for his vibrant spirit, kindness, and his unwavering commitment to his daughters.
“He worked tirelessly to provide for them and ensure they had a bright future ahead. Now, in the wake of this tragedy, Bella and Lulu face an uncertain future without their father’s guidance and support,” he continued.
“We are initiating this fund with the dual purpose of covering the potential repatriation costs to bring Zoran back home and assisting Bella and Lulu with their ongoing living expenses.”
Mr Lymer said the journey ahead will be challenging for Mr Vidovic’s two young girls, “but with our collective support, we can offer them some stability and show them they are not alone during this most difficult time”.
“In these moments of profound sadness, the generosity and kindness of the community can make a significant difference. We ask you to join us in supporting Bella and Lulu Vidovic by making a donation.”
“No contribution is too small, and every act of kindness will be a step towards helping these young girls rebuild their lives.”
Friends, family and even strangers have also expressed their deepest condolences following Mr Vidovic sudden death.
“Zoran was a kind and generous person. Such a vibrant person. Much love to his daughters,” one person wrote on the GoFundMe page.
“So very sad. Thinking of you Lulu and Bella. Kidd family xo,” a second added.
“Thanks for everything you did for my family Zoc. Rest In Peace, Legend,” another wrote on Facebook.
The date of his funeral is yet to be confirmed.