Natalie YEOMAN Obituary

Selwyn and family ... our sincere sympathy. We knew Natalie mainly by reputation, as a generous, warm-hearted and exceptionally talented person who produced outstanding Christmas musicals at Mosgiel Presbyterian Church which we attended and loved every minute of. Kindest wishes to you all, Keitha and Warwick Ross

Natalie was my school music teacher - and I remember as a young child remembering how much I loved her songs, how much they taught us(about life and also Maori society) and how much they made us revel in the joy and love of music. Such an incredible talent in music who had equal talent in education - we all loved her so much. This love of music installed in me early has led me to pursue a career in music myself, and when I read her book A Maze of Grace(in 2 days, I couldn't put it down!) I was so touched by her messages and what she had to teach all of us - about loving life even in the face of adversity. Indeed, it was this that inspired me to reach out, asking if I could set some of the fantastic poems she'd included in the book to music. These songs were performed several times with me on the piano, and also recorded, and I am so glad she was able hear them. In writing these it was really an expression of deep gratitude for all she had done for my life and so many others. I wanted to give back to her even just a little bit of joy as she has given us, and also ensure her legacy was continued long into the future. And indeed, many people from around the country(and also internationally!) have asked me for a copy of these songs to learn or to sing. In the end, the words she has written are the most important - the music is just a vessel through which these words pass! And what words they are from such an extraordinary woman. Natalie - rest in peace, knowing that you have given so much - and you have been and will continue to be a role model to so many.

I met Natalie when Selwyn was Master of Knox College during my first year of University. Natalie and Selwyn became not just great mentors to me, but they also became my friends. I love and will always Natalie dearly; her indomitable spirit, love for music and beautiful soul. I will always think of her when I see a Kereru.

Our family is deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Natalie Yeoman - to us, a teacher and musician extraordinaire. She was a great talent and a generous soul, and our children's primary school days would have been vastly less joyful and fun if she had not been such a big part of them. Her songs were wonderful, special, and unique - she was the beating heart of GSNS and we missed her terribly after she retired.
Her song 'Build Another Day' was sung at GSNS Year 6 graduation and final assembly for years - it was so beautiful and moving that I'd cry every single time, even when it wasn't my children graduating!
To her family and friends, we share your your grief at this great loss. Please know that she was deeply cherished by our family and her school community. We are grateful for her life. We'll think of her as "a light on the flax and a song in the trees". She will not be forgotten.
"There's a voice, there's a hope
That calls us 'Carry on,
Go out and build another day."

Thinking of you all at this time. Loved having Nat as a friend through ExPinkt Gym and was always so proud of her and her creations. Fly free dear friend x

Always an inspiration,rest in paradise.love, hugs and prayers for the Yeomans xo