Elderly man found dead in bush 'a gentleman'

An elderly man who was found dead after going missing in Victorian bushland has been remembered as a "gentleman" who put the community first.

Thomas 'Alec' Thompson, 86, was last seen walking south from his home on Larias Lane, towards the State Forest near Bright at 9.15am yesterday.

A widespread search was sparked, with police and family concerned for his welfare, as Mr Thompson had long suffered dementia.

It is believed he became disorientated after leaving his home, wearing pyjamas and work boots.

Mr Thompson was a committed member of the Australian Lions Club, having even received its highest honour - a Melvin Jones Fellowship award.

"I was devastated, we'd seen a bit of a decline in Alec's health in recent times, but you never expect anything like that," Bright Lions Club vice president Brian Kelly said.

"He was a gentle man. He was a gentleman, but he was a gentle man."

His family said Mr Thompson was a quiet achiever with a golden heart, who loved watching his only grandson play local footy, and had been dedicated to his local community.

Neighbour Nancy Cincotta said "the whole of Bright" would miss him.

Senior Sergeant Doug Incoll of Victoria Police said Mr Thompson had been found with his socks folded and placed in his top pocket.

"So he's obviously a pretty proud, neat and tidy fellow because the boots were side by side and parallel, toes even," he said.

Mr Thompson's disappearance came as Melbourne shivered through its coldest August morning in 21 years.

A report will be prepared for the coroner.