Keith Laurie, one of the Swans’ most passionate supporters, has passed away at the age of 79.

Known for his fantastic sense of humour and unwavering love for the Swans, Keith was a much loved and passionate member of the Sydney Swans family.

The father of two and grandfather of five was a foundation member of the club and a Redback Member.

Keith and his wife Shirley were also permanent fixtures in the Brewongle Stand at every Swans home game and were also active volunteers for the club.

Swans Cheer Squad member and close friend of Keith, Jan Lister, said she first met Keith at Castle Hill Ticketek in 1996, when the pair were lining up for Grand Final tickets.

“We both slept out for the night trying to get tickets for the finals and Keith was number one in the line and I was number two,” she said.

“He was such a passionate Swans supporter and I learnt everything about the Swans from Keith.”

Jan said she and her family would remember Keith for his infectious personality and his ability to live life to the fullest.

“He just had this engaging personality, and he was always happy and always bright and always ready for a bit of a skylark and a joke,” she said.

“He was that kind of fun-loving, warm person and he could always talk to anybody - absolutely anybody.

“He was also a great dancer with us. Us girls who couldn’t get our hubbies up with us, he’d come and dance with us and he could outstay us on the dance floor.”

Sydney Swans’ Chairman Richard Colless expressed his sadness at Keith’s passing and extended his thought to the Laurie family.

“One of the constants since I became involved in the club in 1993 was Keith and Shirley Laurie,” Colless said.

“They were always at every function; they always were positive and optimistic about the club and never sought the limelight.

“They were, as a couple, an absolute joy to have as part of the fabric of the club.”

Sydney Swans Membership, Ticketing and Fan Development General Manager Natalie Fagg said Keith will be remembered as a true stalwart of the club.

“Keith was a foundation member of the club and he was also a volunteer for many years,” she said.

“He could be seen at almost every Sydney Swans major event and match day and truly was a stalwart supporter of the club.

“He genuinely was someone who was relentless with his passion towards the footy club.

“The club wishes to extend our deepest sympathies to Keith’s wife Shirley and family, and would like them to know that the red and white family are here for support in this difficult time. “

Keith’s Funeral Service will be held tomorrow at North Ryde.