To my Dad. When I came into this world, you were already a man established and comfortable in his life and parenthood. I missed the gifts others will speak of as for many years I was blind to them. I played as a child happy with those around me believing there should be more, and yet you stood by me and offered me a hand whenever I fell without judging me. When mum died I was angry at the world and again you offered me your hand and a shoulder to cry on without a word nor criticism. I drove out into the world determined I would be better than you, to achieve more and to obtain more. Again, you offered nothing but encouragement. As I grew older I slowed, and mellowed, which caused me to look back, and finally I saw you for who your really are, my dad, my friend, the man when no one else can makes me smile, the source of my strength. A man who taught me to get what I want through doing, the man who taught me to be humble, kind and generous, and most of all to laugh without restraint no matter how inappropriate the circumstances. As your health deteriorated and you needed my help, in the years of your old age, you had one last life lesson for me. I couldn’t do it alone, I needed to work with and support my siblings, and by doing so the bonds of appreciation and love for them grew stronger. This may have been your greatest gift, my family. Dad I will miss you and think of you often, but I will never forget you or the gifts you gave me. Duncan

I'm sorry to hear of Ken's passing. I'm thinking of you all at this very sad time.

There were many gifts you gave us dad, but the greatest of all was time. You were there for us, raised us, played with us, laughed with us and taught your children many things, the most important of which was how to be a decent human being. Thank you for being the best dad I could have wished for. Miss you old man!

Dear Dad, to wish you were still here with us is probably a little unfair as we could all see you were growing tired and the pain is always only with the one's left behind. So we will go on living our lives as you did yourself. You raised us well, talked, shared, loved and laughed with us. Taught us amazing things as Averil said and quite simply we will always love you so Cherio for now lots of love Megan x.

We love you dad! Life wasn't always plain sailing but we lived through it and I am left with many happy memories of our childhood such as those summer days spent swimming and picnicking on the Oreti River. Going down to your workshop on a Saturday morning and being taught how to use the metal lathe and how proud I was coming home at lunch time wielding a sword we'd made together - some of your handiwork and some of mine :) The stories and funny tunes you'd play for us at bed time - I still love the sound of guitar today because of those times. You taught us drawing skills and helped us to develop a love of art and most of all your sense of humour prevailed even if you said the wrong thing you would often make light of it and smile and laugh. My son's and your most Southern great grandchildren didn't get to spend a lot of time with you but you have added value to their lives because you cared about them. You were not only our dad but an interesting and well travelled man who stepped out of his comfort zone many times to experience adventure and create a new life. You were amazing! funny! kindhearted! silly and playful! hardworking and loving. You were our dad and we will always love you. Averil

Always the gentleman! It was a pleasure to have met you. Rest now Michelle, Rob and Ivory

We were only able to meet once,but you were always in our hearts , all our love pam and aslan x