Kelvin GOODER Obituary

The poem CHARACTER OF A HAPPY LIFE - by Sir Henry Wotton (1568-1639) seems to have been preordained and written for Kelvin Gooder.

Kelvin was Gooder by name and Gooder by Nature. He was a practical Christian who led by example and not by speech, being always ready to roll up his sleeves to lend a hand for any task that required extra help. I remember vividly seeing in my mind's eye how, with a shovel in hand, he helped my brother Rex and me to prepare the formwork, then mix and place concrete for the paths around our house in Selwyn St. Onehunga.
Well done Kelvin, good and faithful servan! Enter into the grace of the Lord

1. How happy the person born and taught
Who serves not another human's will;
Whose armour is their honest thought
And simple truth their utmost skill

2. Whose passions, not their masters are
Whose soul is still prepared for death
Not tied unto the world with care
Of public fame, or private breath

3.W ho envies none that chance did raise
Of vice; they never understood
Knew deepest wounds are given by praise:
Not rules of state, but rules of good

5. Who to God does late and early pray
More of His grace than gifts to lend;
And entertains the harmless day
With a well-chosen book or friend;

6. This person is freed from servile bands
Of hope to rise, or fear to fall;
Owners of themselves, not lands;
And having nothing, yet has all
=================
O Jesus, You have promised
With us, be to the end 1
Be now forever near us
Our Guiding Star and Friend
We shall not fear the darkness
If You are by our side
Nor wander from the pathway
With You as Leading Guide

1 Matthew 28:20 Lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world.

Lifting Muriel and the family up in prayer at the passing of a dear husband, father, grandfather and friend. My heartfelt sympathy goes out to you all, may God hold you and loving memories comfort you.

GOODER, Kelvin. Our Dad, a giant among men who taught us honour, kindness and courage. Who loved us completely and unconditionally. The void left in our world is immeasurable. Thank you for showing your treasure girls the true meaning of a father. We love you Dad: Marian, Faye, Karen, Robyn, Fiona and Vicki. A service will be held at 369 Queen Street, Auckland City on Tuesday 26 June at 11am.

GOODER, Richard Kelvin Frances. Much loved brother of Gwenda and the Late Laurie Beilby, Noeline and the Late Lloyd Gooder and his nieces and nephews. We will miss him.