Mrs Carolyn Ann Gander

Also known as "Carol"

9 January 194931 October 2025

Notice by Legacy Funerals

Funeral service held at Legacy Tauranga

Tributes

Hi Granny, I’ve sat with this so many times, trying to find the right words, but I realised the best way is simply to speak from my heart. You were kind, resilient, and full of endless love. You welcomed everyone with open arms and became the backbone for so many of us. The impact you had on each person who knew you is truly remarkable. Thank you for teaching me kindness and independence, and also that it’s okay to ask for help when I need it. You had this beautiful way of taking the hard moments in life and somehow turning them into something softer, something full of hope. I will miss your smile, your attentiveness, and the warmth you carried so naturally. Thank you for accepting me into your family and loving me as if I were one of your own. I think about you often, and I hope that never changes. Thank you for all that you were, all that you are, and all that you continue to be. ❤️

Kisha

Our daughter Nicole is Richard’s partner, Carol and I are both grandparents to their wonderful kids. We only saw Carol when we came for family visits but we became good friends. She was a warm caring mum to her 3 sons and all their families . It was devastating when she received her diagnosis but she was determined to fight it, unfortunately she lost the battle. Her loss has left a huge gap in their lives but they have lots of amazing memories to remember her by, it is also a blessing she is now pain free and can rest at last. RIP Carol, love Karen & Colin xx

Karen McKain

I'm sitting here looking over the estuary having a quiet moment to myself, reflecting Mum,it's stupid o'clock in the morning...Needed to walk off some of my anxiety. I hope we did you proud Ma. ❤️🙌🙏 Rest well, wait for us . x

Kent

It was a beautiful service for you yesterday Carol, you would have been so proud. There will always be a piece of our heart missing and family get togethers will never be the same without you. We will make sure to keep a look out for those "little signs" we talked about, just to know you are ok. I will love and miss you forever and i promise you I will always be there for your boys..Sleep well 💓 🌺

Nicole Morgan

It’s hard to put into words just how special Mum was — not only to us, her family, but to everyone who had the privilege of knowing her. She had a heart that seemed to hold endless love, kindness, and understanding. Mum was the kind of person who would always put others first, even when life threw her challenges. She had a quiet strength, the sort that never asked for attention but could steady anyone just by being there. Her laughter could light up a room, and her gentle way of speaking could calm any storm. Mum had this beautiful ability to make everyone feel seen, heard, and loved — whether it was through her warm hugs, a cup of tea, or the simple way she’d listen without judgment. To us, she wasn’t just a mother — she was our rock, our guide, our safe place. The lessons she’s left us with will stay forever: to be kind, to look after one another, to find joy in the small things, and to never take a day for granted. Though our hearts ache with her absence, we find comfort knowing that her spirit lives on in the countless lives she touched. We see her in every sunset, every act of kindness, every moment of laughter shared between family. Mum, you gave us everything — your love, your time, your strength, and your heart. You were, and always will be, the best part of us. We’ll carry you with us always. Forever loved, forever missed. ❤️

Richard Gander
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