RAE – John Graham OAM
Born Monday September 17, 1945. Passed away Sunday August 02, 2026.
Dearly loved husband of Elaine.
Much loved father, stepfather, and father-in-law of Peter & Catherine, Christopher & Alison, and Justin & Kyla.
Adored grandfather of Joshua, Aaron, Alex, Nic, Penny, Anna & Isaac.
A cherished member of the Portarlington community who will be sadly missed by all who knew him.
Funeral notice
Family and friends are invited to attend the Funeral Service for Mr John Rae, to be held at Portarlington Recreation Reserve, 4-22 Sproat Street Portarlington on WEDNESDAY (August 12, 2026) commencing at 11.00am.
Private Cremation.
Tributes
Dear Lainey,
Our thoughts are with you and all of your family at this very sad time.
Lainey, we fondly remember our times with you and John, travelling through Europe; exploring Victoria's magnificent coastline; and when you visited us in Wollongong.
We also remember John's infectious dry humour, his enormous strength of character, his visions for the future of his community and his warm friendship.
He shared with us so many of his plans to improve the life-style of his family and his community.
John will be sadly missed.
Our thoughts, love and prayers are with you Lainey.
Graeme & Wendy Akhurst
Keiraville NSWAugust 08, 2026 10:19 am
A huge loss to family, friends and the community.
John’s contributions to Portarlington through his commitment to people and improvements to the ‘jewel in the crown’ through his leadership and generosity to numerous projects, causes and people will continue to reverberate for years to come.
Sadly missed.August 07, 2026 2:37 am
One of life’s true gentlemen.
A man who always made time for people, regardless of their age or stage in life. He had a genuine interest, a kind heart, a generous spirit, and an unwavering commitment to his community.
His warmth, humility and leadership will not be forgotten. He will be deeply missed. Our sincere condolences to Lainey, Kyla, Justin, Isaac and all his family. It really was a privilege knowing him 🫶🏻
August 06, 2026 3:44 pm
Have known John for many years…..around 30 I guess
He was a beautiful person who did his taxes diligently ( I was his tax accountant) and smiled all the time
Tax always took a back seat as we spoke about family and travel….more travel really
He was just a delight to deal with
He and Elaine always lit up my office with their experiences
See you when I get there mate
RobertAugust 06, 2026 7:24 am
Great community service memories John.
Many thanks for your PBDA leadership and other ventures like the Ferry, the harbour and many others
Your ability to connect has been first class and as such most memorable.
Lainey., those journeys are a credit to your back room support of John and more so during the recent months and years.
A sad loss and may his spirit live on.
Vale Johnny boy.August 05, 2026 7:33 pm
We were fortunate enough to work with John during the relaunch of the Portarlington Grand Hotel over a number of years. Our memories are of a remarkable and gentle man who was a beacon for the region.
Our thoughts are with Lani and the family.August 05, 2026 2:31 pm
Dear Lainey, so very sorry to hear of John’s passing .We shared so many good times together, beautiful memories.
Thinking of you and all the family at this sad time.August 05, 2026 1:30 pm
To Lani and families. Our deepest sympathy to you all. John will be sadly missed in our community. He was a great ambassador for Portarlington and someone I called my friend.
David and Shauna Gray.
August 04, 2026 6:52 pm
John was an icon in Portarlington. He was warm, incredibly generous and a great community and business leader. His achievements are numerous. He leaves a wonderful legacy. He is sadly missed.
August 04, 2026 5:26 pm