A baker who died while on his way to work after attempting to drive his car through floodwaters in Seymour, in central Victoria, has been described as a "gentleman" who would brighten people's day.

Key points: Body of man swept away in car in flash flooding found

Body of man swept away in car in flash flooding found Car became submerged after creek rose to 1.6m

Car became submerged after creek rose to 1.6m SES attempted a rescue but unable to reach man

SES attempted a rescue but unable to reach man Area prone to flooding, was well signed: police

Witnesses told police that Max Loweke, a 63-year-old local, tried to drive over a bridge on Delatite Road just after 2:00am and was swept into Whiteheads Creek, which had flooded due to heavyrain.

The State Emergency Service tried to rescue Mr Loweke, with one member tying a rope around his waist in an attempt to reach him.

Max Loweke was on his way to work when he died. ( Supplied: Seymour Telegraph )

But the car filled with water and was submerged before rescuers could get to him.

Police said the water was about 1.6 metres high and moving rapidly when the incident happened.

His body was found inside the car this morning.

Mr Loweke ran a bakery and was well-known in the community.

Geoff Dixon has known Mr Loweke for more than 20 years through their involvement with horse racing and lawn bowls.

"He was a real gentleman of Seymour," Mr Dixon said.

"Anybody who'd walk past, Max would give his hand out, he'd rather give than take,