John Bakkum remembered as community advocate and volunteer

Jacobus 'John' Bakkum who went missing from High Country pub remembered as community leader An elderly man who was missing for two days after failing to return from dinner at a High Country pub with his wife has died. Jacobus 'John' Bakkum, 85, died in a Melbourne hospital on Thursday, two days after he was found trapped in his car which had crashed down an embankment in Mitta Mitta, around 85 kilometres from his home. Mr Bakkum had been declared missing on Sunday night after he failed to return from the short drive from the hotel to his Harrietville home. He had been having a meal with his wife, Mary, who walked home as part of their regular routine. It is believed he drove the wrong way along the Great Alpine Road before his vehicle was eventually spotted off the Omeo Highway by a passer-by just after 11am on Tuesday. Mr Bakkum has been remembered as an integral part of the Harrietville and Alpine communities. "Since 1971, when he came to Harrietville, (John) has always been involved in the community," Mr Bakkum's nephew, Trevor Castricum said. He held several positions in the town, including serving as the local postmaster and running the town's general store for many years. "He's always been an active member, (or) the president, secretary of everything from the school committee, hall committee, historical committee," Mr Castricum said. "He's been the captain of the fire brigade, anything and everything in town." The family has thanked police, paramedics, CFA crews, friends, and family who assisted the search for Mr Bakkum. They have said he was much loved, near and far, and will be deeply missed. Investigation ongoing Victoria Police said a high angle rescue was initiated to recover the 85-year-old on Tuesday morning. He was then taken to hospital with what at the time were deemed non-life-threatening injuries. Police said the investigation into the circumstances of the crash is ongoing. Anyone who witnessed the accident or has any footage is urged to contact Crime Stoppers.