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Post by kevsmith on Mar 27, 2024 0:36:28 GMT 12
And I remember Howard from 1964 onwards in the Control Tower at Ardmore and the same reasons that Peter mentions. At the same time, Bryan Cox (also part time instructor at Auckland Flying School) and their boss, Vic Roberts. These three wonderful men really made Ardmore a very efficient aerodrome and a pleasure to operate there. Howard was forever obliging and helpful to all and sundry.
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Post by planewriting on Mar 27, 2024 8:08:39 GMT 12
And I remember Howard from 1964 onwards in the Control Tower at Ardmore and the same reasons that Peter mentions. At the same time, Bryan Cox (also part time instructor at Auckland Flying School) and their boss, Vic Roberts. These three wonderful men really made Ardmore a very efficient aerodrome and a pleasure to operate there. Howard was forever obliging and helpful to all and sundry. One of either Howard or Vic was quite a humourist. I am told of a student pilot, probably flying either Manukau's CNU or CUU mistaking Unicorn for Uniform. The response from the tower when said pilot called up was to say Unicorn rather than Uniform. Then there was a bouncy landing in a touch and go circuits exercise. On the next approach the tower said ...cleared to land, to land, to land ..."
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Post by FlyingKiwi on Mar 27, 2024 9:16:59 GMT 12
Now that Ardmore has a unicom service you'd be surprised how often I hear people asking to speak to the mythical Ardmore Unicorn.
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Post by Dave Homewood on Mar 27, 2024 12:23:34 GMT 12
I was very sad to hear the other day that Howard Monk had passed away. I'd only visited him a week or so before.
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Post by oj on Mar 27, 2024 19:09:03 GMT 12
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Post by ZacYates on Apr 2, 2024 12:32:50 GMT 12
David Stephen WILSON. Passed away peacefully, aged 73, after a long illness on March 24, 2024, at Gold Coast University Hospital, Queensland, Australia, surrounded by family. Journalist and author, beloved husband of Sally, and much-loved father of Royce and Miles, grandfather of Sebastian and Abigail, and father-in-law of Erin and Kasia. Funeral service at Somerville Funerals Chapel, Allambe Memorial Park, Gold Coast, Wednesday, April 3 at 12.30pm AEST. Donations to Gold Coast University Hospital Foundation requested in lieu of flowers. Messages to: the_wilsons14@bigpond.com Funeral details are here: www.somervillefunerals.com.au/upcoming-funerals/z2tx/ and it will be held on Wednesday, April 3 at 12.30pm AEST (Queensland Time) Dave's aviation writings have appeared on WONZ in the past so you may recognise the name. He retired to Oz and for the last six years ran the WW1AircraftModels.com forum. He was a good man, a great mate and will be sorely missed.
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Post by Dave Homewood on Apr 2, 2024 17:46:11 GMT 12
Oh no, Dave Wilson was a great chap and a friend via Facebook. RIP to one of the really good aviation journalists.
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Post by thomarse on Apr 3, 2024 9:45:02 GMT 12
Leith COMPTON Obituary On Saturday, March 30, 2024, at Gore Hospital, from cancer, aged 72 years. Dearly loved son of the late Gladys and Rex, loved brother of Sharon, and Glenys, much loved Dad of Rex and father-in-law of Sarah, adored Poppa of Daphne, Lily, and Chloe. In accordance with Leith's wishes, a private cremation has been held. Messages to Compton family, 175 Colombo Road, Masterton 5810.
Although I can't see Leith on our Members List, he could well be here under an alias but he was certainly active over on several FB pages
I never met him but Leith was a Wairarapa boy who had been loader-driving not only in NZ but also overseas and had a wealth of knowledge of Ag Aviation - one of those who should have written a book
Blue skies, Leith
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Post by ZacYates on Apr 3, 2024 11:37:18 GMT 12
I know the name. I'm very sorry to hear the news, thank you for letting us know.
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Post by tbf2504 on Apr 4, 2024 8:20:17 GMT 12
so sad to read of Dave Wilson passing on, We had a great relationship in the mid-late 1970s when I was the secretary of the Airforce Historical Centre (forerunner of the Airforce Museum) Dave was always keen to cover our progress, and to write articles for The Press on matters of military aviation history
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Post by trees on Apr 4, 2024 15:25:37 GMT 12
F/S (RTD) Ronald William Yeates (Tub) G81081 Instrument Fitter /Avionics Tech RNZAF 08 January 1963 until 09 March 1987. Member of the # 20 BE (Boy entrants) course. 41 SQN Malaya October 1968 to October 1970.
Died peacefully at Palmerston North hospital on 1 April after a long illness. Tub will be at the family home 15 Course Lane, Sanson on Saturday and Sunday should anyone wish to pay their respects. Monday will be a private family send off.
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Post by trees on Apr 5, 2024 5:08:24 GMT 12
CPL (RTD) Rudolph Peter (Rudi) Gitmans R78284 CLK ACCTS RNZAF 19 January 1956 to 18 January 1964, member of # 9 BES Class of 56. Rudi passed away (Date TBA) at home on Waiheke Island. Rudi will be cremated and his ashes scattered on a beach at Waiheke, his family will have a private ceremony to mark the occasion . At some latter stage his Son Mark will be arranging a memorial service details of which I will advise as they come to hand. Regards Hooks
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Post by trees on Apr 14, 2024 16:44:57 GMT 12
Air Commodore (RTD) Mervyn William (Merv) Hodge OBE AFC CVSA AMN (Malaysia) S77250 Pilot RNZAF 2 January 1954 until 1 June 1985. Born Auckland January 08, 1936 passed away on April 06, 2024. Mervyn William Hodge, a beloved father, grandfather, great-grandfather, uncle, and family member, passed away on April 6th, 2024, at the age of 88. Mervyn's life was defined by the deep love and connection he shared with his family and his passion for flying, music and for sailing which was evident from his earliest years. He is survived by his children, Krissie and Sandy, his grandchildren Iona, Kathleen, Maddie, and Seb, and his great-grandchildren Willow and Goldie. Mervyn was also a much-loved uncle to Stephen, David, Deb, and Jo, and a cherished family member to Lachie, Heather, Sophie, Charlotte, Bobby, Caele, Greg, Roma, Gaye, and Frank.Throughout his life, Mervyn brought joy, wisdom, and unwavering support to all those around him. His kindness, wisdom, compassion, determination and strength were an example to all who knew him. A celebration of Mervyn's life will be held in mid-May, with the exact date and venue to be confirmed. If you would like to attend this celebration, please email celebrationofmervslife@gmail.com. For those unable to attend, but who would like to share a memory of Mervyn, please email it to the same address, so that his family can cherish your thoughts and reflections. Mervyn William Hodge will be deeply missed, but his legacy of love, laughter, and kindness will continue to inspire all who were fortunate enough to have known him. May he rest in peace. Published by The New Zealand Herald on Apr. 13, 2024.
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Post by Dave Homewood on Apr 14, 2024 17:40:07 GMT 12
This is very sad to see that Air Commodore Hodge has passed away. He was Commanding Officer of No. 40 Squadron in the 1970s and was the captain that flew the very first New Zealand aircraft, a Hercules, into both Russia and China. His daughter contacted me a while back and suggested I do an interview with him. I was keen and he has been on my to do list for a while but I just never got there. I really regret not taking the opportunity now. RIP Sir.
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Post by errolmartyn on Apr 19, 2024 12:40:10 GMT 12
Air Commodore (RTD) Mervyn William (Merv) Hodge OBE AFC CVSA AMN (Malaysia) S77250 Pilot RNZAF 2 January 1954 until 1 June 1985. Born Auckland January 08, 1936 passed away on April 06, 2024. Mervyn William Hodge, a beloved father, grandfather, great-grandfather, uncle, and family member, passed away on April 6th, 2024, at the age of 88. Mervyn's life was defined by the deep love and connection he shared with his family and his passion for flying, music and for sailing which was evident from his earliest years. He is survived by his children, Krissie and Sandy, his grandchildren Iona, Kathleen, Maddie, and Seb, and his great-grandchildren Willow and Goldie. Mervyn was also a much-loved uncle to Stephen, David, Deb, and Jo, and a cherished family member to Lachie, Heather, Sophie, Charlotte, Bobby, Caele, Greg, Roma, Gaye, and Frank.Throughout his life, Mervyn brought joy, wisdom, and unwavering support to all those around him. His kindness, wisdom, compassion, determination and strength were an example to all who knew him. A celebration of Mervyn's life will be held in mid-May, with the exact date and venue to be confirmed. If you would like to attend this celebration, please email celebrationofmervslife@gmail.com. For those unable to attend, but who would like to share a memory of Mervyn, please email it to the same address, so that his family can cherish your thoughts and reflections. Mervyn William Hodge will be deeply missed, but his legacy of love, laughter, and kindness will continue to inspire all who were fortunate enough to have known him. May he rest in peace. Published by The New Zealand Herald on Apr. 13, 2024. HODGE, Air Commodore Mervyn William, OBE, AFC, (cvsa), AMN (Malaysia)[/b]. S77250; Born Auckland, 8 Jan 1936; RNZAF 2 Jan 1954 to 1 Jun 1985; Pilot. Citation Queen’s Commendation for Valuable Service in the Air (NY1963): Not available. In the period preceding this award Flt Lt Hodge was a flying instructor at the FTS and CFS, Wigram, Aug 1955-Jun 1958; an instructor on 42 Sqn RNZAF, Ohakea, Jun 1958-Jun 1959, then a pilot on 40 Sqn RNZAF. His valuable service in these posts was recognised by the award of the Queen’s Commendation. Citation AMN (Ahli Mangku Negara, Malaysia) (1965): Flight Lieutenant M W Hodge of the RNZAF served with the Royal Malaysian Air Force for the period November, 1962 to January, 1965, first as a flying instructor and later as a Flight Commander with the Flying Training School. He also served as officer in charge of the Aircrew Selection Centre having assisted initially in setting it up. During his service with the Flying Training School, Flight Lieutenant Hodge initiated an extensive modification programme on Provost aircraft in use at the School. He put a great deal of hard work and research into the planning of the project. His efforts are now bearing fruit at the School in its new location at Alor Star. By and large, Flight Lieutenant Hodge was responsible in no small measure in bringing about all round improvement in the Royal Malaysia Air Force during his tour of duty in Malaysia. Citation Air Force Cross (QB1972): Not available. Following service with the Royal Malaysian Air Force (Nov 1962-Jan 1965) Sqn Ldr Hodge served on a staff appointment in RNZAF HQ before returning to flying duties with 40 Sqn (Hercules) in 1967. He became a Flt Cdr in 1968 and Sqn CO in Nov 1969 being promoted to Wg Cdr at the same time. His outstanding service as a commander of a transport squadron was recognised by the award of the AFC. Citation Officer of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (NY1984): Group Captain Hodge joined the RNZAF in 1954 as a pilot trainee. During his flying career he has been mainly employed in the training and transport roles, in both of which he attain ed the highest category standards possible and flew over 8000 hours on various types of aircraft. He commanded No 40 Sqn from 1969 until 1973 and was awarded the AFC in 1972 in recognition of his outstanding performance. He has served on a variety of other command and staff appointments and has twice served overseas, firstly on secondment to the Royal Malaysian Air Force and latterly as Deputy Commander, New Zealand Force South East Asia. He commenced his present appointment as Director of Organisation and Staff Duties (DOSD) in mid 1982. Throughout his career Gp Capt Hodge has displayed outstanding determination and has applied himself with remarkable vigour and dedication to each and every task assigned him. As a consequence of his personal efforts and example the effectiveness and efficiency of the Units on which he has served or led has always been markedly improved. During 1981 he was responsible for directing the introduction of Boeing 727 aircraft into RNZAF service. The remarkable success of this project is further testament to his energy, organising ability and professional knowledge. His present assignment has been no exception; despite having to personally fight back from a near-fatal accident he has brought his usual flair and enthusiasm to his duties as DOSD. As a consequence this vital aspect of the RNZAF’s operation has been significantly improved. In all the many and varied flying, staff and command appointments in which he has served, both in NZ and overseas, Gp Capt Hodge has made an exceptional contribution to his Service and has displayed an outstanding example of leadership, dedication and personal courage. CO 40 Sqn RNZAF (Hercules) Nov 1969-Jan 1974. Errol
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Post by trees on Apr 24, 2024 17:49:04 GMT 12
F/S (RTD) Walderne Norman Charles Tisdall NZ436008 RNZAF 1943 to 1946. Passed away at Northbridge Residential Village on 18 April 2024 aged 99 years. Beloved husband of the late Mary for 71 years. Dearly loved father of Stephen, Elizabeth, and the late John, "Dad" to Ces and "Pop" to Nicholas and Jess and Christopher and Jess. Treasured, admired and respected, and will forever be in our hearts. Special thanks to the staff of Northbridge Rest Home for their wonderful care of Wal, particularly as his health declined in recent months. A service for Wal will be held at St. Peter's Anglican Church, 11 Killarney Street, Takapuna, at 2pm on Thursday, 2 May 2024, followed by a private cremation. In lieu of flowers, an online donation to Harbour Hospice North Shore (harbourhospice.org.nz) will be greatly appreciated.
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Post by planewriting on Apr 24, 2024 22:15:45 GMT 12
F/S (RTD) Walderne Norman Charles Tisdall NZ436008 RNZAF 1943 to 1946. Passed away at Northbridge Residential Village on 18 April 2024 aged 99 years. Beloved husband of the late Mary for 71 years. Dearly loved father of Stephen, Elizabeth, and the late John, "Dad" to Ces and "Pop" to Nicholas and Jess and Christopher and Jess. Treasured, admired and respected, and will forever be in our hearts. Special thanks to the staff of Northbridge Rest Home for their wonderful care of Wal, particularly as his health declined in recent months. A service for Wal will be held at St. Peter's Anglican Church, 11 Killarney Street, Takapuna, at 2pm on Thursday, 2 May 2024, followed by a private cremation. In lieu of flowers, an online donation to Harbour Hospice North Shore (harbourhospice.org.nz) will be greatly appreciated. I knew "Wal" Tisdall virtually since birth. When my father (Brian Layne) transferred to NAC from the RNZAF in 1947, he flew several times with Roger Boys who sadly was killed in Lodestar ZK-AKX at Waikanae on 18 March 1949. His widow Jean had already got to know my mother and was aware she was a war bride with limited friends. War brides were women who married a foreign service man (New Zealand in their case) and settled in his home country. Jean introduced Mum to her friend Mary Tisdall (Wal's wife) who lived just round the corner from us. Their late son, John Tisdall, was born three weeks before me and so Mum used Mary's sewing machine to make me some clothes. I last saw Jean (and her late son John Boys) at the unveiling of the AKX/AQT plaque at Paraparaumu after having earlier taken her up to the crash site of AKX on its 50th anniversary on 18 March 1999. Strangely enough, not only was his father killed on an NAC crash day; he was born on one too... He was born on 9 August 1948 which was the day that NAC DC-3 ZK-AOE crashed in the Marlborough Sounds.
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Post by trees on Apr 27, 2024 14:18:02 GMT 12
SQN LDR (RTD) Peter Daniel Couch W86868 EDUC O RNZAF 7 January 1975 until 21 January 1990 passed away peacefully at Christchurch Hospital on 10 April 2024 aged 74.
Messages may be addressed to the family C/- PO Box 39001 Christchurch 8545. The funeral service for Peter will be held in our Westpark Chapel. 467 Wairakei Road, Burnside, on Monday 29 April 2024 at 1400 hours. Private cremation thereafter.
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Post by trees on Apr 29, 2024 17:58:07 GMT 12
W/O (RTD) Patrick (Pat) Valentine A459632 ATC INSTR RNZAF 12 January 1952 until 1 APRIL 1976. Passed away peacefully with family by his side, at BUPA Parklands, Christchurch, on Sunday, April 21, 2024, aged 92 years. Dearly loved husband of Kay for 45 years, father of Richard, Patrick, David, and Luke, much loved stepfather of Bridget, Nick, Kati, and Matt, and beloved Pop of his grandchildren. The family would like to thank the staff of Parklands hospital for the care and support given to Pat and the family. Messages may be addressed to: The family of the late Pat Valentine, c/- PO Box 39001, Christchurch 8545. As per Pat's instructions, a private cremation has taken place.
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Post by Dave Homewood on Apr 29, 2024 22:24:54 GMT 12
RIP to legendary topdressing pilot WONZ Show guest Harley Cadwallader who passed away this evening following a battle with illness. Harley appeared as my guest in episode 230, which I am linking below for anyone who may wish to revisit it, or who may be finding it for the first time. My condolences to Harley's son Ryan, who asked me to make this post, and the rest of the family. cambridgeairforce.org.nz/WONZShow/2020/12/wonz-230-harley-cadwallader/
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