Also known as "Rooksy"
26 October 1954 – 28 February 2026
Also known as "Rooksy"
26 October 1954 – 28 February 2026
ROOKS, Gary Russell (Rooksy):
Sadly, passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by the love of his family, on Saturday 28 February, aged 71 years. Much loved partner of Gee, loved Dad of Craig, Andrew, Janelle and Nikki, loved father-in-law of Nicola, Toni, Cambell and Leith, and treasured grandad to all of his grandchildren, and their wonderful partners.
Now at peace and free from pain, he has found his freedom again — time to fish every day, just as he loved.
Messages to the Rooks Family may be left on Gary’s tribute page at eagars.co.nz/gary.
A service to celebrate Gary’s life will be held at Eagars Te Henui Chapel, 46 Watson Street, New Plymouth on Thursday 5 March 2026 at 10.30am.
In preference to flowers, please consider a donation to Hospice Taranaki.
For those unable to attend, Gary’s funeral will be livestreamed via his tribute page.
Forever loved, forever remembered.

Funeral service held at Eagars Te Henui Chapel
Sad the passing of Rooksy a good man. He had so much to give. Rest in peace. Lions Governors 2005/6 Tony and Helen Clifford
My deepest sympathies to you Glenda, Gary was a really great guy, who I know will be sadly missed. i’ve known & respected Gary as a work mate from as far back as 1976 when I 1st met him when I was an apprentice at the Lactose Dairy Factory in Kaponga. We worked together again many years later at Methanex. Gary was definitely someone I looked up to in the industry. Not just because of his great engineering knowledge but because of his ever present smile, calm demeanor & caring personality. He was very well liked & respected wherever he worked & I consider myself very lucky to have known Gary throughout much of my working life. Rest in peace mate. Geoff Shearer
We were so fortunate to have spent time in Lions with Rooksy and Kathryn 2005/06 as DG's we were a great team. Full of Fun,Friendship and Fellowship. Rest in Peace knowing you were alway in our heart. Sandra and John
Gary was allways a pleasure to work with, level headed, a gentle giant, "one of good ones". My condolences to Gary's family and friends.
To Gee & Gary's family - Wendy & I send you all our heartfelt sympathy at this very sad time. We have so enjoyed our chats with you both when you have come into our office and we will miss Gary's friendly banter and his dedication to his community. Hope that the great memories that you have made together help you during this time and in the future. He will be very sadly missed by all who knew him. Take care.
I have known Gary for over 50 years.A lifetime friend. Celebrating weddings, Birthdays, Holidays and funerals with Kathy and Gary. My heart felt sympathy to Craig and family, Andrew and Toni and family Janelle and family. The Rooks and Schrider families. Gary Will Be Sadly Missed Rest In Love 💕
I knew Gary from high school years and I was a bridesmaid at his wedding. He was half of Team Kathryn(dec) and Gary, and I'm grateful that they had the best years of their lives together. Gary was happy and funny - an integral part of the Schrider family as a loving and loved son-in-law, brother-in-law and uncle and friend. Heartfelt love to Craig, Andrew and Janelle, Garys siblings, and their families, at this very sad time. Gayleen Schrider
So sad to hear of Gary's passing. Such an all-round great guy. Gone far too soon. Deepest sympathies to Gee and family.
I was deeply saddened to hear this news, and I want to extend my heartfelt condolences to all of Gary’s family, especially Gee. I have such fond memories of those early Origin/Kupe days with Gary—times that truly shaped so many of us. Gary was not only a wonderful boss but a beautiful person, and I feel fortunate to have known him. His kindness, leadership, and sense of humour will be dearly missed by everyone who had the privilege to work alongside him Thinking of you all during this difficult time. Warm regards, Kelly
Our condolences to Gee and all the family. Gary was a great person. We met him through lions. He will be sadly missed. Lynette Stewart & Mike Short.
I am so sad to hear that Rooksy has passed away. He was a valued work colleague, and over the years we shared many laughs — both when we worked alongside each other and when he was my manager. I truly considered him a friend. Mike and I send our heartfelt sympathy to you, Gee, and to the family. He will be deeply missed by all those who knew him.

Funeral service held at Eagars Te Henui Chapel

A simple way to share tributes, receive service reminders, and send flowers or support.
Join the Waitlist