"RN NZD1640, ex Leander, ex Submariner, educator, and good mate. Passed away Wednesday 4th October 2017 in his 98th year. Much loved husband of Win (deceased), treasured father and father in law of Grant and Robin, Jan and Paul. Adored and proud poppa of Virginia and Pat, Rowan and Michelle, Rachel and Charlie, Kitaj and Tom, Mnthali and Hamish, and Taggio. Legendary great poppa of Anthony, Thomas, Devlin, Coben, Alec, and James. Des enthusiastically embraced life, friends and family, revelling in life to the very last. He will be sadly missed. A service will be held at the St Christopher Memorial Chapel HMNZS Philomel Navel Base, Queens Parade Devonport on Tuesday 10 October at 1.00 pm, followed by private cremation. Photo ID will be required to access the base."