CHAMPNESS, Leonard Torr (1927-2024)

Modified on Thu, 11 Jul 2024 16:07 by Caroline Stok — Categorized as: Biography - All, Biography - Students, Geelong College

CHAMPNESS, Leonard (Len) Torr (1927-2024)

Len was enrolled at the College in 1946, to complete Form VI coming from Geelong High School. He was a member of Calvert House and placed in several athletics events, and received house colours. He also served in the Relay Team. In the Combined Schools competition, he was part of the open mile medley relay team, coming 2nd.

Following school, Len studied at medicine at the University of Melbourne, receiving an entrance scholarship for Queens College. Whilst studying, Len was also rowed for Queens College and other activities. Len met his wife to be, June Dempsey at University, and they married in 1951 at the Queens College chapel. They have four children, Peter (OGC 1967), Hugh (OGC 1969), Helen and Kathryn.

Len graduated MB BS at the end of 1952 and moved to Geelong to complete his intern year at Geelong Hospital. The young family then moved to London where Len continued his studies in London, then on to Papua New Guinea for 12 years.

In 1966 the family returned to Geelong and Len went into private practice and became involved in paediatric and geriatric medicines Grace McKellar. Len retired from Barwon Health in the early 1990s but continued private practice, including stints with the Royal Flying Doctor Service and hospital in Alice Springs.

Retirement saw Len continue his passion for a life well-lived, family, hard work and community. He travelled overseas for walking tours and was a valued member of the Belmont Uniting Church.

Len passed away 13 May 2024, aged 96 years.

Sources: Tuckers Funeral Services May 2024, Pegasus, Ad Astra, OGC 1946.