Leon GARNER Obituary

Dear Rose and family,
In 1989 I wrote worldwide from the UK to optometry depts and hospitals to see who could offer me a few days or weeks in their dept. whilst I was on my world travels. It was a white lie - I hadn't even booked my tickets at that stage!
Leon was the only one to respond positively, and it lead to coming over for a whole academic year. So my trip was modelled on coming to Ak Uni.
We missed each other as I landed in Ak, as he thought I looked too young to be the right person and didn't ask me, and I saw him in arrivals - but without a name board, so it couldn't have been him....
Oh how I laughed as I eventually dragged my suitcase into Barbara's office, and listened to the explanation. That was a memorable beginning.
I felt at home immediately, and after a lot of initial nerves, I fell in love with the Dept. and NZ.
I found myself a Westie, and here we are today, back in Auckland with our girls. I wonder where I would have been now, if he hadn't offered me a position in 1989?
Leon was a great professional, thoroughly lovely, and had a smile and laugh that is fondly memorable.
Thank you Leon.

GARNER, Emeritus Professor Leon Frank. Passed away peacefully after a brave battle with cancer surrounded by his loving family at the Epworth Hospital, Richmond, Victoria, Australia, on August 31st, 2016, aged 75. Devoted and loving husband of Rosie. Kind and dedicated father of Jane, David, Megan and Belinda, and highly respected father-in-law of Simon, Julie, Mark and Matt. Excellent Papa of Samantha, Tyler, Beau and Sienna; Oliver and Gabby; Rocco, Lily and Jack; and Annabel Rose. Forever in our hearts.