The Board and staff of The Kids Research Institute Australia are mourning the passing of former Institute Board member and supporter Sir James Cruthers, and send their sincerest condolences to his family and colleagues.
The Kids Director Professor Jonathan Carapetis said Sir James would be remembered for his foresight, friendship and philanthropic nature.
"Sir James was actively involved with the Institute for several decades until his health deteriorated. His legacy in creating Telethon has improved the lives of children and families in Western Australia and beyond."
Former The Kids Board Chairman Mr Kevin Campbell remembers a man who helped the Institute grow into the leading organisation it is today.
"He was very committed to child health and wellbeing and the medical research that makes that happen. He saw Telethon as the community's way to support that important priority."
Sir James came up with the concept of a "Telethon" in 1967, when he was Managing Director of Channel 7 Perth, while playing a game of golf with Jim Clarkson, the then CEO of Princess Margaret Hospital.
Today, Channel 7's Telethon is the Institute's Principal Partner, providing essential funding to support important child health research.
Sir James served on the Institute's Board in the early 1990's and helped to raise funding for the Institute's purpose-built research facility in Subiaco.