Alan PINDER Obituary

Such a lovely fellow when I knew him at NSTC back in the late 60s. Although I did not remain in NZ beyond my early teaching years I always remember his kindness to me when I was terribly homesick during my Country Placement! It was a pivotal moment when I could have so easily left teaching but Dens words and encouragement altered my life´s path!
Condolences to the family!

Angela Younger (Gunton)

It was great having Den and Marg join our staff at Westmount. Den established great rapport with the students and knew that a rich school culture with sport, fun and experiences to enhance learning bring out the best in everyone. What a great team. We were lucky to have you. Den will live on in those beloved kids and the lovely string of grandchildren. Our sympathy for your loss Marg and family. Den will be remembered with love and respect. Vikki Churcher

Mana of the giant Kauri ,
Could belt out " in the jungle the lion sleeps tonight " with the whole school ,
50% of an amazing
teaching team ,who helped motivate and inspire the other teachers
Thankyou

Den was a highly admired and respected teacher, colleague and friend. When he was acting principal he would come down to the junior school every morning- not to check up on us or judge, but to see how we all were, with his huge and caring smile. Den was an amazing guy who will be sorely missed and forever remain in our hearts. Hugest hugs to Marg and your whanau.

Den was a wonderful person, teacher, colleague and friend. I have experienced Den's kindness and support during our teaching days together at Westmount School (now OSG Maungaturoto). I'll treasure these memories. Rest in peace, Den. Now you can play your guitar while the angels sing.

Mr Pinder was one of those teachers that you never forget, however much time passes. I still remember his basic facts tests that transformed the way our class performed in maths.

Kia ora Marg, Sam, Jamie and extended whanau,
I am terribly saddend to hear of the passing of Den and my thoughts are with you all of you at this very sad time. I have so many fond memories back in the Wellsford Primary School days with you both (Mr and Mrs Pinder) and what you did for all the students back then and throughout his teaching career and of course, catching up from time to time as an adult in passing, was always great to have a chat.
Some teachers leave imprints in your life as a student and I can say without a doubt, Den did this for me!
Aroha mai and rest in peace Matua.
Nga mihi nui
Clark Lewis (Wellsford Primary 1981-1989)

Possibly the greatest teacher we ever had
A jolly soul that brought joy to every room

So many memories of a teacher who sang, laughed, pulled our legs, encouraged us, and inspired us. He was one half of an amazing team who will always live in our hearts.

An awesome teacher. Taught the basics and allowed fun and music while keeping everyone in control.

Great friend to the Redwood family of Whangarei. Lots of fun and laughter shared. Our
thoughts are with you Marg, Sam, and Jamie. Rest in peace Denford.

I so remember how Den contributed to the life of Wellsford School. He strode in to the assembly hall strumming the guitar, walked to the front and had the whole school in his hand. And I lived the basic facts sheets he produced. He was a great teacher.