Mr Michael Gordon Bain
12 December 1941 – 26 May 2026
Mr Michael Gordon Bain
12 December 1941 – 26 May 2026
BAIN, SQNLDR (Ret’d) Michael Gordon (E134117), RNZAF
It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Michael Gordon Bain, who tragically left us on 26 May 2026, aged 84.
Michael was the dearly loved husband of Anne, a devoted and much-loved father and father-in-law to Stuart & Dawn, Andrew & Naomi, and Rebecca, an adored grandfather to Kathryn, Isobel, Tui, Whina, Matthew, William and Sarah. He was a loved brother of Peter and the late Robin and Colleen, a cherished member of his wider family and a loyal friend to many.
A devoted Christian, Michael was a lifelong member of Island Bay Presbyterian Church, where he had been part of the congregation since his early childhood. His faith was a quiet but enduring foundation in his life, reflected in the way he treated others with kindness, humility, and generosity. During his time in Blenheim in the late 1990s, he also served as an Elder at Blenheim Elim Church and as a band leader, contributing faithfully to both the spiritual and musical life of the church community.
Beyond his distinguished service with the Royal New Zealand Air Force, Michael lived a rich and vibrant life shaped by his passion for music. A talented and active musician, he played in numerous bands across New Zealand over many years, bringing enjoyment to countless audiences and forming lasting friendships along the way. Music remained a constant thread throughout his life, reflecting his energy, warmth, and love of connection.
Michael will be remembered for his generosity, his quiet strength, and the lasting impression he made on all who knew him. He will be deeply missed.
The family extends its sincere thanks to the staff of Wellington Hospital Emergency Department for the care and compassion shown to Michael.
A service to celebrate Michael’s life will be held at Island Bay Presbyterian Church, 88 The Parade, Island Bay, Wellington, on Tuesday 2 June 2026 at 12.30pm, followed by a private burial at Mākara Cemetery.
Michael’s service will be livestreamed via this page. Messages and tributes may be shared here, or cards can be sent c/- 375 Adelaide Road, Newtown, Wellington 6021.
With the approval of Chief of Air Force Air Vice-Marshal Darryn Webb, SQNLDR (Ret’d) Michael Gordon Bain is being laid to rest wearing his Royal New Zealand Air Force uniform. This special honour reflected his proud service to the RNZAF and the enduring respect held for him by the Air Force community. His uniform served as a visible reminder of his dedication, commitment, and the distinguished contribution he made throughout his years of service.
Notice by The Wilson Funeral Home
Funeral service held at Island Bay Presbyterian Church
Tributes
Condolences to Anne and family. Mike's kindness and faith will be remembered, and his music will live on in our hearts. Morris Wong Orient Xpress
Mike was a much valued colleague, both as a faithful fellow member of the Military Christian Fellowship and as a point of contact in Air Staff for ministerial services from the Office of CDF at HQNZDF in Wellington. I well remember his account of tramping up to the cross in the Tararuas. Well done, good and faithful servant. Sincere condolences to Anne and family. Blessed are they who mourn. Mike Scrivener, QSM ex Senior Ministerial Coordinator HQNZDF
My deepest condolences to Anne and family in this time of loss. Mike, my dear friend, you will always be in my heart. You invited me along to a band rehearsal 25 years ago, and that started my love of trad jazz and performing with bands. For over 10 years we played together and made wonderful musical memories. I always loved our catch up when I was back visiting Island Bay. Rest in Peace Mike. Alastair former band mate Banjo/Guitar
Rest in Peace Mike, good and faithful servant. Our band leader, friend and Sax soloist. Always kind and generous. God bless Jimmy Drummer OrientXpress
Michael, it still feels unreal that you are gone. You brought me in as the vocalist and my son Shanli as the saxophone player into the OrientXpress Jazz Band, and in doing so, you completely changed our lives, bringing so much colour and richness into them. I have been with the band since 2013, and Shanli joined in 2018 when he was only 14 years old. His very first gig was at Parliament — a moment we will never forget. From then on, we have cherished every single moment, both on stage and off stage, as part of this musical family. You were not only a mentor in music, but also a mentor in life. Your guidance, trust, and support shaped us in ways we will carry with us forever. I often told you that you were like a father to me, and I truly meant it from the bottom of my heart. Your talent, kindness, generosity, selflessness, gentleness, and humility touched everyone around you in ways words can never fully capture. Your passion for music was truly inspiring, and it shone through in everything you did. You gave so much of yourself so freely, asking for nothing in return. These beautiful qualities will stay with us always, living on in our hearts. You are deeply missed, and will be remembered with endless love, gratitude, and respect. Rest in peace, Michael. Until we meet again in heaven. 🙏💔🎵
Notice by The Wilson Funeral Home
Funeral service held at Island Bay Presbyterian Church
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