Luke Carroll, a beloved husband, father, and friend, was farewelled on Friday, November 21, in Wollongong, leaving behind a legacy of loyalty, honesty, and community spirit. Under the somber skies, hundreds gathered to pay their respects at his funeral, where a guard of honour marked the final farewell to a man who touched many lives.
Carroll, who passed away at the age of 39 on November 15, had been battling stage four colorectal cancer for three years. His courageous fight against the disease was not just a personal battle but a public call to action. Before his passing, he urged the community to seek medical advice and follow up on symptoms, hoping to spare others from a similar fate.
A Life of Celebration and Community
Known for his love of gatherings, Luke was the kind of man who would drag a barbecue and eskies down to Wombarra Beach, ensuring his friends and family had a place to celebrate and laugh. His loyalty and straightforward nature made him a cherished figure among those who knew him.
On the day of his funeral, many attendees wore green ribbons or clothing, a nod to his favourite rugby league team, the Canberra Raiders. His wife Kristina, donning a Raiders jersey, stood as a testament to his passion for sports, which included cricket, football, and V8 Supercars. Luke was also dedicated to restoring an EH Holden, a project that symbolized his love for mechanics and engineering.
A Family Man and Loyal Friend
Luke’s father, Peter Carroll, shared heartfelt memories during the service, recalling how his son was always in a rush to live life to the fullest. Born on April 1, 1986, in Sutherland, Luke was a big brother to Alyce and Dave, and a devoted husband to Kristina, with whom he shared two children, Chloe and Nicholas.
Peter’s pride in Luke’s achievements as a mechanical engineer was evident, as was his admiration for Luke’s devotion to his family. “He grew up to be my little mate,” Peter said, reflecting on their close bond.
“Having Luke changed our lives forever. You can’t describe the feeling of having your first child and he was a stubborn little bugger,” Peter Carroll.
Remembering a Man of Values
Luke’s cousin, Chris Rolfe, described him as a man of solid values, someone who was “humble in his achievements” and never one to brag. “Luke built his life on some really solid values. He is the most loyal, honest, straight shooter most of us would know,” Rolfe said during his eulogy.
Luke’s younger brother, David Carroll, shared his admiration, recalling how he idolized Luke growing up. “Like every little brother, I idolised my big brother,” David said, expressing how Luke’s toughness was balanced by a softer, caring side, especially evident in his role as a family man.
A Love Story and Final Farewell
Kristina Carroll reminisced about their early days, from meeting at Holy Spirit College to sharing simple joys like pineapple tarts and Christmas lights. She spoke of a memorable family trip to Fiji, a testament to their shared life and love.
“I’m glad we had that fight. I’m glad I went behind your back to organise it. I’m glad you had a great time with our family in Fiji,” Kristina Carroll.
As she faced the gathered crowd, Kristina read her wedding vows to Luke one last time, promising to love and honour him for all her days. “Luke, my darling, I will love you with all my heart until we meet again,” she concluded, her words resonating with the shared grief and love of those present.
Luke Carroll’s legacy is one of love, resilience, and community spirit. His life, though cut short, serves as a reminder of the impact one individual can have on those around them. As Wollongong bid farewell to a cherished son, husband, and friend, his call to action and his memory continue to inspire.
