Mr Allan Laidler

30 June 193631 October 2025

Passed away surrounded by his family, on 31 October 2025, aged 89 years.

Deeply loved husband of Anne.

Greatly loved father and father-in-law of Kirsten and James, Brigit and Grant, Dominic and Jo.

Cherished grandfather of Noah and Nate, Matthew and Jessica.

Much loved life-long friend of Jan and David McDowell and family.

Loved friend and relative, teacher and mentor.

A service for Allan will be held at the Wilson Funeral Home Chapel, 375 Adelaide Rd, Newtown, Wellington, on Thursday 6th November at 11am, thereafter private cremation.

Parking at the venue is limited so please factor this into your travel arrangements.

To leave a message or tribute, please do so on this page.

Cards can be posted c/- PO Box 7123, Wellington 6242.

Tributes

Dear Anne and family, I was so sad to learn just yesterday that Allan had died. I have so many fond khandallah memories of you both. If you ever come to London do please get in touch. Meanwhile warmest sympathy and best love to you all, Jocelyn Robson.

Jocelyn Robson

Dear Laidler whanau, what wonderful tributes from you all to Allan. He would have been so proud of you all. I was touched by all the memories and stories, and seeing you all from 45-50 years ago, all with your own families now, incredible and uplifting. Allan was a terrific boss, funny, insightful and with high expectations. He stimulated my being drawn to leadership and learning how disparate groups of people can work together. There was a moment, sitting with Hugh, Bob, Shona and Bruce Stokell, with Robyn in the row behind us and so many memories came flooding back. My memory was of Allan skiing with Bob S who had lost his capacity to move his muscles. Allan had his skis outside of Bobs, hands on Bobs poles, and holding him up, And guiding him, they went up tō tows, then down the mountain. Allan’s care, generous spirit, and courage was apparent. Allan had this great mix of vision, and pragmatism and if any of us had an idea, it became ours to implement. Feeling for your deep loss, with very best wishes, Diana

Diana Jones

Thank you for that wonderful tribute to Allan you provided in the service today. You so well captured the Allan I knew - his depth, warmth, enquiring deep mind and thinking, his deep interest in people and genuine questions he always peppered you with when you caught up with him. He helped train a generation of leaders, many of whom were impactful in the many spheres they went onto contribute to. He led the most vibrant, creative and extensive Recreation Service at VUW - well ahead of its time - and the like of which is not seen today across the tertiary sector. Thank you for that great tribute and love you shared. He was loved by many. Arohanui Chris

Chris Collins

Very sad to hear Allan has passed away. I have known Allan for sixty years, first as a student then as a work colleague. Our families have enjoyed many shared occasions over the years. He made an outstanding contribution to the developement of the student services at Victoria University of Wellington and the teaching of recreation studies. A much loved friend, always supportive to other colleagues and students. We will remember Allan always with the greatist affection. Goodbye dear friend.

Ian Boyd
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