We were deeply saddened to say goodbye over this past year to some incredibly compassionate and inspiring people who were significant philanthropic leaders in our community.
We are truly grateful for their unique and meaningful support and our thoughts and prayers remain with their family and friends.
Siegfried (Siggi) Westerfeld, 1949 - 2021
Siggi was a man of generous spirit and heart, and believed in philanthropy as a meaningful way to enhance the wellbeing of others.
Siggi began receiving treatment at the Cancer Centre at St John of God Murdoch Hospital in 2017, and over time he and wife Gudrun made significant contributions towards cancer treatment and research at the hospital. Siggi will be greatly missed and his legacy continues to live on through the oncology clinical trials unit, which supports medical innovation and helps researchers to develop new and more effective treatments for cancer patients.
Professor Michael Quinlan AO, 1938 – 2020
Professor Quinlan was a highly respected specialist medical practitioner and well-known Western Australian who had a long association with the Sisters of St John of God, and was a member of St John of God Health Care’s first Governing Board.
Professor Quinlan went on to become the inaugural St John of God Foundation Board Chair in 1997. In this role he was instrumental in leading a capital campaign to garner community support for the Bendat Family Comprehensive Cancer Centre (BFCCC) at St John of God Subiaco Hospital. The BFCCC was established in 2007 to provide comprehensive support, allowing patients to access all the services and support they need, for all cancer types, in one location.
Frank Costa AO, 1938 – 2021
Frank was a highly respected businessman and notable Geelong community leader. He was an active philanthropist and a long-time supporter of St John of God Geelong Hospital, contributing to the hospital’s redevelopment in 2014, as well as the upgrade of the day oncology centre and Special Care Nursery.
Frank was also a patron of St John of God Health Care’s Horizon House Program, which provides support to vulnerable young people. Frank’s contributions enabled the addition of a further two Horizon Houses to provide support for young people in the region.
Peter Patrikeos, 1938 – 2021
Peter was a beloved member and Deputy Chairman of the St John of God Health Care Governing Board for nearly a decade, and formerly held the role of Director of St John of God Foundation.
Peter made meaningful contributions to support comprehensive cancer care as well as the St John of God Murdoch Community Hospice during this time, creating positive impact for many patients and their loved ones.