Paul EDWARDS Obituary

I was saddened to hear of Paul´s passing. I think I last saw him about 8 years ago. I worked for Babbage and Partners from 1970 to 1976 and they were my first and only employer in NZ. When I joined the firm, the office was located on the first floor of 215 Parnell Rd. About 1972 the office moved to a new building at 272 Parnell Rd. Within 6 months of joining Babbage´s, I was assigned to work under Paul on the Newton Road bridge project. Despite the fact I had very little experience he gave me the responsibility to design the bridge substructure and I am grateful that he had confidence in me that I had the capability to do the job at the age of 21. I was also involved in the supervision of the bridge and had to inspect many piles constructed to support the bridge. For these inspections, I was lowered in a cage to the base of the piles. During my time at Babbages, I also worked on other jobs under Paul until I departed for overseas in 1976. I have not lived in NZ since then.

I have uploaded some photos I took of Newton Road bridge and the interior of Babbages office at 215 Parnell Road. You may find them of interest. I bought my first camera in 1972 so all the photos date from then. Paul is shown on one of the Newton Road bridge photos and he appears in 2 of those taken in Babbages office.

Babbages gave me a wide range of experience early in my career and this experience was of great benefit to me and held me in good stead for the future. I also fondly remember the great times we had socializing on Friday nights when the partners provided draft beer in flagons with chips.

I enjoyed working under Paul and appreciated his wise counsel. He was a very experienced bridge engineer and I learnt a great deal from him. He will be surely missed and I give my condolences to his family.

Geoff Blake
Kalgoorlie
Western Australia
Aug 2022

Darling Bron Susan and Megan and of course Barbara you must be feeling the huge loss of a lifetime together. sharing so much. Thinking of you all so many memories. Just want to acknowledge how much you gave to John and how much he loved you all. Memories of holidays at your batch in the Bay of Islands hosting John's 21stand so much more. Sending my love and gratitude for Paul's life. xx