When I was an awkward tweenager, a family of new cousins plus an aunt turned up at our semi-rural home in Ohauiti, Tauranga. These cousins were all very good-looking (especially Frans) and I was struck by how cosmopolitan, worldly wise, elegant and fashionable they were, funny, witty and great conversationalists. I fell in love with the Driessen family and as I had more to do with them over the years, I came to realise that they were the most generous and loving people you could ever hope to meet. Farewell Frans, my world grows colder.

Dear Driessen Family. A lovely Service of Franz. It brought back memories of the early years in Auckland. Thinking of you in this sad time. May Franz rest in peace. Lots of love to you all, from Robert and Rineke of Ohope. NZ.

Rest in peace Frans. You were a kind and generous soul. I still think about the first time I met you, at dinner with Emma and Lisa. We were chatting away about what I can’t recall, when I used the word “kilometre” - you immediately pulled me up saying I pronounced it incorrectly - it’s kilo-metre, not kilometa. You reminded me that it’s a Greek word and I should know how to pronounce it correctly! 😂 I think about that moment every time I hear everyone pronounce kilometre incorrectly, and I always make sure to sound it out correctly and it makes me smile. Thoughts and prayers with Lisa and the family. Rest in peace and God bless.

Sad to be so far away, but sharing the ceremony is truly a help. Our sincere condolences to Lisa , Douceline and Joseph and all the family and friends who knew, loved or liked him , Marianne