Michael RYFF Obituary

Dear Robyn, Anneke, Francesca and family
I was shocked and saddened to hear the news of Mike´s passing.
I remember such happy times with our two young families and always in the background was Mike , laughing, caring, enjoying and making the most of everything.
I am so sorry that you are going through such sadness way too soon.
With love and deep sympathy
Anna Blair and family

Very sincerest & deepest condolences to the extended Ryff Family, Only had the pleasure of meeting Mike on a handful of occasions, always a gentleman and could certainly have a laugh on and off the golf course. Mike will be missed by many.

Our sincere condolences Robyn and family. Mike was an old work colleague and we shared some sailing experiences as well. I´m sorry we lost touch but the memories are still strong. I´m overseas but I´m sure it will be a lovely farewell on Friday. Our thoughts are with you. Simon and Judy Thompson

Dear Robyn and family,

We were saddened to learn of Mike's death and we would like to extend our deepest sympathies to you and to your family. We had known Mike for many, many years through his longstanding friendship with our mutual friend, David Tucker. However our contact with him was sporadic given we live in Wellington. The last time we saw Mike (and you too, Robyn) was at the funeral of David's mother, Betty, in January last year. I recall Mike being initially quite stressed having had to negotiate Auckland's heavy traffic from Omaha to Manukau with the start time looming ever closer. We can all understand the strain that can be caused by Auckland's traffic congestion. Mike was always very friendly and chatty to us and that was exactly how he was when we last met him. We enjoyed conversing with him whenever the opportunity arose. Ann and David had informed of Mike's deteriorating health. They told us that he put up a great fight in trying to defeat his cancer. We know Mike achieved a great deal in his 71 years of life and we understand that he very much enjoyed his life with you ,Robyn ,and with his family. We are thankful for having known Mike and will miss having our occasional chats with him. May he rest in peace.

Barry and Margaret Lindsay
Wellington

Dear Robyn and family,
Sue and I are very much saddened to hear of Mike's recent passing. We have fond memories of our get togethers in days gone past.
Best Wishes David & Sue Dowsett

Sad news. Lots of great memories from Otahuhu College and Auckland Rowing Club days.

Members of the Auckland Rowing Club are saddened at the news of Mike's passing. He was an outstanding member of the ARC throughout the 1970s having commenced his rowing at Otahuhu College. It was a privilege to race and train with Mike. He combined a competitive spirit with the very best in sportsmanship. His achievement of a NZ title in 1980 was a true recognition of his prowess. Sadly missed by friends and crewmates. Sympathies to Robyn and Mikes family.

To a memory of a wonderful crew man, Mike was a significant member of the rowing crew I coached for three years 1968-1971. Have not seen him for along time since but will never be forgotten in what he contributed to the team. RIP Mike.

My condolences to Robyn and Mike's family. He will be sorely missed by all including those that have rowed with him. I have known Mike for around 50 years. Mike was instrumental in helping in winning premier rowing races especially in premier quads. Mike was a great guy.