Born 27 years ago into the famous Ablett football dynasty, Ryan died in his sleep at his Berwick home last Saturday week from an undiagnosed heart condition.

Ryan's father, Casey Mayor Geoff Ablett, was among the eulogists at the service attended by football greats such as Gary Ablett Snr.

Cr Ablett cancelled his official engagements last week after receiving the news.

Tears flowed during the ceremony, particularly when a song written and recorded by Ryan was played.

Rain started as the service ended and close family and friends went to the Drouin cemetery for the burial. Afterwards, hundreds of people celebrated Ryan's life and accomplishments at a wake at a nearby church.

In a joint written statement, Cr Ablett, former wife Heather and Ryan's siblings Jake and Cassandra said they had been overwhelmed and heartened by the many messages of support.

"Up until last Saturday, Ryan had been undertaking his own strenuous training regime for his football and thought that recent bouts of extreme tiredness were due to this heavy workload," they said.

"Unfortunately, this was not the case and it appears that Ryan's dedication and passion for his footy may have contributed to exacerbating his heart condition."