Lewis AINSWORTH Obituary

AINSWORTH, Lewis James. We are brokenhearted to record the sudden death of Lewis James Ainsworth, 35, the result of a helicopter accident on 23 February 2024 (NZT), while at work in British Colombia, Canada. Lewis is our dearly beloved: the only child of Marney, the fourth son and brother of Joe, Martin, Kevin, Iain, Sean and Frances Tonner, father to Maya, committed cousin, uncle to his nieces and nephews, and loving partner of Sarah. Lewis was President of the NZ Mountain Guides Association, a profession he took great pride in and which gave him so much. We send our deep condolences to the families and friends of the three other people who died in the same event. We wish the three survivors a full recovery. We extend our gratitude and respect to the people who rescued Lewis and to the survivors who made that happen; also to the staff of the Miles Memorial and Vancouver General Hospitals for their exemplary care of Lewis and of his whānau who gathered to be with him until his life support was turned off on 28 January 2024 NZT. We are grateful beyond words for the tender support of the Wahine Toa of Koru Cremations, Vancouver. And to MPI for easing our return to Aotearoa. Nga mihi aroha nui kia koutou katoa. Celebrations of Lewis's life were held in Squamish, British Colombia and at Aoraki Mt Cook. Links are available on request. Donations can be made to the Lewis Ainsworth Legacy Fund on givealittle.co.nz which will be used to support Lewis's daughter into the future. Lewis was a loved friend and mentor to many. We are grateful to have him grace our lives. We are honoured by the support we have received from so many. Messages can be sent to marney. [email protected] "May the shimmer of the greenstone pounamu, always glisten upon his pathway, and may his path be widespread". Kingi Tawhiao (Te Tupuna)