Luke Filby has complicated memories of his uncle Dezi Freeman.

"He was like an older brother for me growing up … we were pretty close in my younger days," Mr Filby said.

"I remember him being great, awesome, kind of like a larger-than-life character when I was younger. I looked up to him greatly."

But as Mr Filby grew older, he began to see a different side to his uncle.

"He always had this mentally ill, hidden anger about him, like this hidden anger of meltdowns," Mr Filby told 7.30.

"I can't explain it … and he never liked healthcare professionals to ever get a proper diagnosis or help with it.

"I could see that he was aware of it and tried his best at a younger age to manage his anger.

"He was right into karate and stuff and I think that was kind of an outlet to try and contain h

See Full Page