Walter David Boots passed away at Griffith Base Hospital on September 13 aged 80.

Mr Boots was born in Leeton at the "Haven" in 1941 and lived in the town for his entire life, with his family stating he "loved Leeton".

It was the town where he raised his family with wife Fay after they married in 1959, going on to have four children - children Trish Preston, Ellen Crockett, Michael Boots and Julie Boots.

Mr Boots was known for his hard work, starting his own business - David Boots Sand and Gravel, which continues to this day and is a big employer in town.

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His family said he was the "quintessential Australian" who was known for his kindness, care and a generosity.

They said there were many stories that abounded for his love for the community.

Mr Boots was also a founding member of the Leeton Country Music Festival, which was a fundraiser for many local charities.

He donated to many charities in town over the years, including Gralee School, Country Hope, Cancer organisations, the Leeton Hospital Auxiliary, Leeton Show Society, Leeton Jockey Club and many sporting groups.

He was also a member of the Leeton Lions Club and he and his wife always donated truck loads of gifts to the Leeton Community Christmas Lunch each year.

Mr Boots was also passionate about helping local families who needed support and was awarded the Leeton Citizen of the Year in 2010.

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His family said he was honoured and proud of this award.

A funeral service was held for Mr Boots on September 23 at the Leeton Lawn Cemetery, with numbers capped due to COVID-19 restrictions.

Those wishing to honour Mr Boots have been encouraged to donate Leeton Can Assist or carry out community work to keep the town he loved thriving for many years to come.

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