Jacob Vallender will be remembered for his generosity and willingness to help.
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His father, Greg, saw Jacob help people but even he didn't know the extent of his son's kindness until after Jacob's untimely death.
Jacob's life support was turned off on Saturday after the Peel High student suffered a heart attack five days beforehand. It was also discovered that Jacob had an undiagnosed congenital heart defect.
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Greg said "16 years was not enough" with his son but was one of many who were better for having known Jacob.
"We've been blown away by young kids his age who have sent messages in," Greg said.
"Not just three words but heartfelt messages. That has been overwhelming.
"That was just his nature and that's what we're finding out even more with all the messages coming through about how much he meant to people and how much he helped them."
Jacob loved his sport. AFL in the winter, cricket in the summer and a fish every other night of the week.
"He got to the point where he was good at it [fishing] - he was out-fishing me," Greg said.
Jacob was also developing into a handy off-break bowler but above all else his kind-hearted nature is how Greg will remember his son.
"And his smile," Greg said.
"There wasn't a nasty piece in him and he was so unselfish.
"On the footy field, he'd go for a run and have a chance to have a shot on goal but would look to pass to other players.
"He was just a cheeky kid, never had a fight at school - not once.
"I couldn't be prouder of him. He didn't like injustices in the world. He'd stand up for kids that were being picked on."
Greg added: "He loved doing that sort of stuff, he was on the front line helping out and the best thing was he never expected anything in return."
Jacob will be laid to rest on January 7 at 10am at the Lincoln Grove Cemetery. Greg said he didn't want the memorial service to be sad occasion but instead "a celebration of all things Jacob Vallender".
