Jack Passings – January 2020

WHAITES, Joan Courtenay (née Barker): World War 2 Leading Wren No. 393, WRNZN. In her 100th year, on January 16, 2020, died peacefully in Christchurch Public Hospital after a short illness. Loved wife of the late Rev Robert Whaites, and sister of the late Sylvia Bowron, late Derek Barker and Janet Taylor of Queenstown, and loved aunt of her nieces and nephew and great-nieces and nephews in Australia. A small afternoon tea will be held at “Untouched World”, Roydvale Avenue, on Thursday, January 23, 2020, at 2.00pm for those who would like to share memories of Joan. Messages to Janet on 03 442-2044 or queenstown.janet@gmail.com Special thanks to helpers of the Anglican Care, Bishops Park who so willingly helped and shared Joan’s life, also to Ngaio Marsh Retirement Village.

McGOWAN, John Narey: MBE JP (retired) NZ who’s who. RNZN 9859 WWII (on loan to Royal Navy). On January 10, 2020, in Auckland, in his 94th year. Husband and great companion of Nadine for more than 72 years. Loved father of Tony, Max and Karyn. Grandad to 7 grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren. A man who dedicated a huge portion of his life tirelessly for others. The family want to thank the management and staff at Summerset Heritage Park Ellerslie for their love, care and support for Dad since their arrival, and for the special care provided in his final days. Gone but never forgotten. At John’s request, a private funeral service has been held. Please direct any correspondence to Nadine McGowan, c/- Summerset Heritage Park, 8 Harrison Road, Ellerslie 1060

RIDDELL, Kenyon Elder (Ken): RNZ Navy, Air Force: AF-AC2, N-A/LA. Service No. NZ9620. Peacefully on Saturday, January 11, 2020, at Princess Alexandra Resthome, with his daughters by his side. Aged 94 years. Dearly loved husband of the late Dorreen. Loved father and father-in-law of Margaret Selby, Brian and Heather, and Kay and the late Phil Best. Cherished grandfather and great-grandfather of Craig, Greg; Alex, Meg; Madeline, and Oliver. The family wish to give special thanks to the Staff at Princess Alexandra for their wonderful care of Ken. A celebration of Ken’s life will be held at the Sugar Loaf Chapel of Howard & Gannon Funerals, Cnr Lee Road and Gloucester Street, Taradale, Napier, on Wednesday, January 15, 2020, at 1.30pm, followed by a private cremation. Messages to the ‘Riddell Family’ C/o PO Box 7001, Taradale, Napier 4141.

MEIKLE, John Neil (Jack): NZ14129, CPO, RNZN.Passed away peacefully at Maygrove Village Hospital, Orewa, on Thursday, January 2, 2020. Dearly loved husband of Jeanette. Much loved father of Richard, Shelley, Alan and Ian. Proud grandfather to his many grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Cherished brother of Bernice and the late Errol, and special uncle to Donelle. Dearly missed and forever in our hearts. According to the family’s wishes, a private family service for Jack will be held.