Veteran broker Stan Annis died last week after a long illness.

Mr Annis, who suffered a stroke last year, began his career in the broking industry in 1969, with his daughter Francesca Sammut joining him later and working with him to build the Sydney-based Annis Group, where Ms Sammut is now MD.

The funeral will be held tomorrow, with only 10 people in attendance due to COVID-19 distancing rules. The family says a “Stan-style” celebration in his memory will be held when large numbers can gather again.

“Stan has been a mentor to us all and he is missed by his family and the staff at Annis Group,” Annis Group Director of Operations Bianca Cook told insuranceNEWS.com.au. “Many of our clients have fond memories and entertaining stories to tell about Stan.”

Tributes from clients and brokers have noted his “simple no-fuss approach” and sense of humour, with one client saying his knowledge, integrity and humour were the “cornerstone of many great business and personal relationships”.