You have always had a place in my heart as if it was shattered you would be the piece that was kept. I remember when you would always have card nights and I would always play with the jokers but a voice over my shoulder said "Don't bend my cards!" On Waiheke Island I would always giggle after sneaking up the stairs while you told me not to just incase I would break things. Me and Khaia would always bake you a cake in the mini sandpit as if it was your birthday but instead of finishing them we would go feed grass to the variety of animals that you had. As you said never say goodbye as it is to final but to say see you later so see you later Grandad.One day or another I shall see you but it might not be for awhile but when we do you should fill me up on all of the stuff that has happened!

Sorry we can not be with you today but are there is spirit., and are thinking of you and whanau that can not be there. One memory we have of John is the weekend we moved from Coromandel to Auckland in 1985. We were going to hire a furniture removal truck but John told as not to be so silly, he would shift us - wouldn't take any money for his time, petrol, hire of the furniture trailer. He was generous with his time. Another memory is him giving Andy a BIG feed of kinas and telling me I was in for a treat - yeah right!! .....when the wind started being passed. Enjoyed alot of happy memories with him and mum - fishing, going to the trots and Auckland cup, seeing him turn his hand to so many things. Rest peacefully John for you have earnt it. Mum Wish will have the tea made and the scones will be ready. "His wings were ready, our hearts were not" Arohanui

I have so much words I want to say, but everything seems to be coming out a complete mess. With such a hectic year in these tough times, we are all feeling so emotional that we can not be there with you to celebrate Uncles life. A man cherished and loved by so many, a man who would have given the shirt off of his own back to help you out. Uncle Paki, as you take your journey to hawaiki, know that all of our tupuna are there to guide you on your way. We will be up to visit Uncle Paki when restrictions allow. Love to you all my beautiful Gage whānau and I hope that we can catch up soon ❤❤❤❤

John Sorry that we can’t be with lorraine and family at your service , you know if it were possible we would be there. You were one tough old soldier and we will definitely miss your cheeky grin and sense of humour. You put up one hell of a battle thats for sure and we’re glad you can finally rest. Please know we will always look after Lorraine for you so you can trust that she will have someone looking out for her always. You had some amazing stories and you sure had a full life and we will always remember you trying to teach jason to be a truck mechanic (underline: trying). You had so much patience and even though he may have tested it you were a great teacher. Till we meet again John All our love Jason and Nichole