Posted 23 September 2026
It is with great sadness that SVI marks the passing of Gerald Snowden OAM, a treasured friend of the Institute. Gerald died on September 18, aged 93.
Gerald was a man of quiet conviction and considerable warmth; “a humble man with a big heart,” in the words of former SVI Director Professor Tom Kay. Gerald was married to Patricia for 55 years and together they raised eleven children. Pat trained as a nurse at St Vincent’s Hospital in the 1950s, and it was through her that Gerald’s long affection for the campus began.
After Pat died of breast cancer, Gerald chose to honour her memory by supporting medical research. “Patricia did so much for so many,” he said. “I wanted to turn my frustration at being unable to help her into something positive.”
In Pat’s memory, Gerald gave generously to SVI, contributing both his time and his financial support. In 2025 he was awarded a Medal of the Order of Australia for services to the community through philanthropy.
He was also a member of the SVI Discovery Fund and Patron of SVI’s Jack Holt Society, a role he took up with characteristic generosity, giving his time, ideas and energy to the Institute’s community and speaking with others about supporting research for the long term.
Our thoughts are with Gerald’s children, grandchildren and wider family.