Richard McDONNELL Obituary

Thank you for the love, the laughter, the audacity and the memories Riki.
They were special times that have never been forgotten. Lovee always, Linda. Xx

Rikki -- Godspeed. I shall never ever forget the kindness you gave to me as a musician in Napier and in the USA.

Martin Sobelman
West Linn, OR
USA

Rhys, Rhian and Laura, Thinking of you all at this sad time. A real Loss for the music industry. May the love and support of family and friends get you all through this tuff time.

A true musician, loss to the Brass Band movement...love to family.

Riki was one in a million. He was always so positive. When the conductor would suggest a hymn from the red book, Riki would always say "that's my favourite" with a cheeky smile. Made me laugh every time! I will miss him calling me "Rumpole". Rest in peace.

The first time I met Riki was when my late husband, Frank Rawbone, cancelled my birthday treat to Brugge so we could meet up with Riki in Wigan (UK). Over the years I learnt to appreciate Riki's qualities as much as Frank valued them. Riki was talented, funny, and passionate about finding just the right line through the music.To his family thank you so much for sharing him with us. He will be missed but stay in our hearts Love margaret x

Condolences Rhys & family. Retail can be bloody boring sometimes. What a relief it was to see Riki striding through the door and at least know there were some laughs on the way. We had a standing joke. He would ask me where my next gig was , and I would smugly reply Wellington Town Hall, Norfolk Island Jazz Festival or CHCH Arts Festival etc; then ask him where his next one was. 'Sydney Opera House' or 'Albert Hall' he would reply. Always topped mine. The term 'ray of sunshine' could have been invented for him. Best wishes.

Riki and I go back a very long way - he has given so much pleasure to so many people and I have wonderful memories of the many times we shared together - whether it was at home practicing with the piano, at band practice, on the contest platform or having a drink together after a contest performance.

Rest in Peace my good friend.