Christopher ESPIE Obituary

Poppa Chris,

Whenever we entered your home, you'd welcome us with the most vibrant smile, the warmest and merriest "Hello" and you'd lovingly embrace our kids one by one as they entered the door. To know you won´t be there the next time we visit, is heart wrenching.

I am very thankful that we were blessed to journey some life and also hold onto many fond memories of you. Memories such as letting us loud mouths hang out at your previous house on the deck till late, making us your "special" hot drinks and seeing you excitingly watch Moana with the girls even though you had probably seen it 50 times already. But one of my most favourite memories was Leah´s wedding day. Witnessing your reaction to Leah in her wedding dress for the first time, walking her down the aisle and saying one of the best Father of the Bride speeches I've ever heard are moments I´ll always remember.

Seeing the genuine love of a Father towards their kids is incredibly special. You didn't have to say much to show how much love you had for your kids but when you did speak, you articulated words in such a way, that it moved the hearts of those around you.

And then to see how much you loved on our beautiful Nana/ Mama Helen was next level. How you both laughed together, joked about one another, cared for each other and travelled the world together is truly special, and was also inspiring to couples like Su´e and myself. A marriage of 49 years is no easy feat and is definitely one to be honoured.

Your beautiful marriage and the family you have helped raise is a true testament to the man that you are. We´ll be forever grateful that we got to journey life with you Poppa Chris. Much love and we will miss you dearly. Manuia lau malaga.