Foundation Canberra Raiders player Mick Tilse (Raider #16) has passed away, aged 67, following a long illness.

Tilse was part of the Raiders’ inaugural squad in 1982, and played nine matches for the club in the Raiders’ first-ever season.

Canberra Raiders chief executive officer Don Furner said the Tilse name had long been associated with the club.

“The Raiders would like to pass on their condolences to the Tilse family after the passing of Mick Tilse,” he said.

“Mick was a foundation player in 1982 and his son Dane went on to play over 200 first-grade games for the club, so the Tilse name has had a long and proud association with the Raiders.

“Mick and Dane have the honour of being the club’s first father/son combination to have played for the Raiders.”

Mick’s son, Luke, posted a tribute to his father in a Facebook post.

“Mick Tilse, father to three, and grandfather to six. Passed away last night after a long illness,” the post published on 5 August said.

“A massive thank you to all his amazing friends and family that came and saw him over the past few weeks and months. Sent messages of love and support, and called to show their love for such a great man.”

Luke said Mick passed peacefully, surrounded by family last night around 7:30pm.

“Thank you to the amazing staff at Scone (Scott Memorial) Hospital who made his last few weeks as comfortable as they could possibly be,” he said.

“Details of his funeral will be posted in the coming days.

“Dad was 67 years old.”

It comes just a day after Canberra Raiders and Queensland State of Origin legend Sam Backo died aged 64.

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