The Mentone Grammar community is devastated by the loss of Jan Drinan who passed away on Friday 2 August.
Jan has been a beloved friend and supporter of Mentone Grammar for over 40 years, both as a past parent and through her late husband Tony (Class of 1968) who served the School with distinction for 26 years. Since 2001, Jan has been awarding the Tony Drinan Medal, created by The Mentonians Association in his memory, to honor exceptional Mentonians who have excelled in their professional fields, emulating Tony’s own accomplishments.
Jan was most recently a guest at the annual Friends of Frogmore lunch in June dedicated to the School’s ‘vintage’ alumni, together with long-serving past staff and special friends. She was once again truly thrilled to present the Tony Drinan Medal to a very deserving Mentonian, James Oxley (Class of 1970).
Principal, Andy Müller said that he was extremely saddened by the news having met Jan in recent months. “In chatting to Jan, it was clear to see the passion and genuine affection she held for our School, and I am so very grateful for her dedication and support over so many years. She will be sorely missed.”
We extend our heartfelt condolences to Jan’s extended family and friends at this difficult time, including partner Greg, daughter Hayley and sons Aaron (Class of 1997) and Troy (Class of 1994). Jan will forever remain in our hearts.
(19 June 1953 – 2 August 2024)
Labore et Honore.
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Past Staff Reunion 2022
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Jan presenting the 2023 Drinan Medal to John Peers’ family
Pictured: Sally Peers (sister), Elizabeth Peers (mother), Jan Drinan and Bill Peers (father)
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Inaugural Tony Drinan Award Night 2001
Pictured: Don Ingram OAM (Class of 1955 and Master Emeritus), Jan Drinan, Professor Glenn Bowes AO (Class of 1966 and inaugural Drinan Medal awardee) and Mary Jones (exceptional matriarch of Mentone Grammar)