Graham OLIVER Obituary

It's hard to know where to begin to talk about Boots and the impact that he and Deane have had on our little family. Boots and Deane were the Nana and Papa that my kids didn't have close by and Boots filled that role in ways that went above and beyond. Every time we went to the house (almost every day) we were greeted with warm hugs and a kiss for the girls. Boots was always ready for a chat and a visit and seemed to have all the time in the world for the kids.

A favourite memory is of Boots batting a balloon around the lounge with the rest of us when they came "across the road" to celebrate Saloma's birthday.

And it was so special being able to celebrate the "birthday boys" each year with Mark and Boots' birthdays only being a day apart. It was often spent with a bottle of fizzy grape juice for us, something a little stronger for Deane and Boots, a cake of some kind and delicious treats that Deane made while sitting on their deck. I looked forward to it every year.

Boots especially made time for Huk. He encouraged him to learn the ropes of kiwi sport... introducing Huk to The All Blacks, The Black Caps and some car racing. But Boots was also happy to sit alongside Huk and watch Lion Guard or Paw Patrol. And he smiled every moment it was happening. This was the memory that Huk asked me to write about.

And of course, Boots was always so happy to see the girls. He always had sweet words and warm cuddles for all three of us. We all knew that we were loved and special.

Deane and Boots made us feel so cared for and loved. They fed us, hugged us, dried our tears, celebrated, rejoiced and played with all of us over the years.

I personally loved hearing Boots' stories about his childhood and family, their time in Fiji and about his own children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren whom he loved with every ounce of himself! My favourite was when he'd start singing a song in the middle of a story. I had many MANY happy hours sitting with Boots and Deane in their lounge with a cold drink that he had served me... doing everyday life together.

Thank you Boots and Deane for giving so much of yourselves to us. We are better people and a better family because of both of you. We have missed you so much in the past year or so and now... well, Papa Boots... in awhile Crocodile. We love you!

To dear Deane and family,
Sincere condolences from me, David, Peter and India. Boots was a lovely man, much admired by us all (especially my late parents Daphne and Rob) for his devotion to family, good humour and generosity.

Rest in Peace, Boots, you created a beautiful legacy. Sincerely,

Mel Clark
Santa Monica
California