Farewell Nan, we will miss you

Just before heading to Slovenia for a weeks holiday I rang my grandfather in New Zealand to wish him a happy birthday. It was anything but, Nan wasn't doing well and he didn't expect her to last much longer. A day later and after 86 wonderful years she left us.

For as long as I can remember, she has always been a part of my life spending large amounts of time together when I was younger, for this I consider myself very lucky. I was her first grandson and first generation New Zealander in the family.

I am grateful for the family bond and values passed down the generations and will continue this myself with my children and grandchildren. Without her I would not be the person I am today.

We found it difficult being on holiday at such a time and wished we could be there with everyone. Back in New Zealand there is great family support and the mountain walking in Slovenia gave me ample time to reflect on her life and what she meant to us.

It was a beautiful funeral with many people coming to pay their respects. My brother played Across the Universe by John Lennon & Paul McCartney, many lovely words were said and she was honored by the Last Post from her days in the Royal Air Force.

Thank you to all those who helped out the past couple of weeks arranging everything and keeping me informed and to Nick for representing both Renate and myself.

Always looking back with that smile on her face. I will always will remember her this way.