We have just viewed Eddies' service. Sorry Lynn, but sadly, it had become impossible to attend. Everything said at the service is Eddie to a T. We first met Eddie in 1977 as I had just became a new Christian. Eddie was quite a character, and his faith was strong in Jesus. The boating tragedy had certainly impacted him significantly in his faith in God. We lived next door to the Coates in 1979 for a year. We experienced Eddie throwing a rock through our bedroom window. Yes his aim was not good, he was aiming for the roof. And then he got the measurement of the glass wrong when replacing it. We will always remember Eddie for his sense of humour and his character of mischief, and certainly for his strong faith and the love he shared.

Dear Lynne, Debbie & Brett and families, our sincere condolences. A lovely man now at peace. Karen and Ralph

Our condolences Lynne, Brett and Mel, Debbie and Bryn. Certainly an amazing man, and what a legacy he has left. Definitely a privilege to have spent time with him, and you all as a family. His priceless stories and shenanigans, but also that Godly wisdom at the opportune time, He truly was a character, and a man after God’s own heart, now at peace.

Sending condolences to Lynn and family Eddie was a great fellow him and Dave used to get up to mischief at the hospital poor nurses great laughs will miss him rest in peace love from Dave and Judy

I will never forget meeting Eddie and Lynne for the first time at their home on Baldrock Road. They welcomed us like family, and as the merging of two visions became apparent, the birth of a deep and lasting friendship began. My late husband Tony and Eddie had an immediate connection with a love of farming and the outdoors coupled with their faith and love of people - especially children and youth. We shared many many times together filled with laughter, dreams, prayer and friendship., and lived for 2 years in their cottage on the farm. The last overseas holiday Tony and I had was with Eddie and Lynne in Rarotonga, where they travelled with us and were a huge support to myself and Tony who was not well. Right now my heart is heavy for Lynne and the family, but it is filled with joy for Eddie - who is now healed and free. He can confidently say "I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith". 2 Timothy 4:7. Karen Johnson (and for Tony) Dear friends.

Thankyou Eddie and Lynne for the wonderful work you did for our community children through Rock Solid ,Scouts and Bible in schools . Eddie' was a great role model especially his caring ,fun side and his integrity how he lived his life .

Dear Lynne and family, Please accept my sincere sympathy on the death of Eddie. I can appreciate what you have gone through watching such a lovely man deteriorate over recent years. Life can be very unfair. My thoughts are with you all. Joan Ferguson.

A shock and very sad to hear of your passing away Eddie. Dear Lynne & family: our condolences to you all. We plan to be at Eddie's funeral

Terribly sad to hear of Eddie's passing, and our thoughts and condolences go out to you Lynn and your family.

It is with great sadness we acknowledge Eddie's passing, not because its a sad chapter for him, but for his dear Lynne, Debbie, Brett and families as well as Eddie's many friends. Eddie, you will be finally free and totally healed. At home in a place of undescribable beauty, love and peace. I have fond memories of Eddie at Bible College in Whangarei, staying with Eddie and Lynne at the Oak Ridge Camp in Paparoa and in their lovely home in Baldrock Rd, Kaiwaka. Eddie, you always made me laugh. Your fun loving nature seemed to turn any grey day into a fun day. Your passion to help and support young people in the community was inspirational. Your strong faith was an anchor even during your health challenges. We will miss you dear Eddie. Lots of love to you Lynne and family. Love Graeme and Heather (Lil)

I have very fond memories of Eddie (& Lynne ) when I travelled to NZ with my mother Nancy and later with my partner Neville. Eddie was so full of life and enthusiasm. He loved NZ , the country side and its history and his family’s significant place in it. Eddie’s compassion for others in need took practical forms and Lynne shared this of course. Lynne and he enjoyed a special long and loving relationship and Lynne and his children’s commitment to him in these last difficult years was so admirable. While sad that he has departed this world it is a blessed relief.

When we think of Eddie, what comes to mind is a fun loving, faithful guy who loved life, and shared his faith in his community. Thanks for the many years on the board of YFC Northland and running the local Rock Solid club. Eddie always gave me sound advice over a cup of tea with one of Lyn’s sweet treats. You will be greatly missed. Love Garth & Judy

An Uncle without being a true Uncle. Dearly loved and will be greatly missed. We morn for the Uncle Eddie that we will no longer see, but we rejoice for he is with our Father in heaven. Mum and He will be catching up in Heaven like old times. Much love to you Auntie Lynne and Debbie and Brett and families. From Sandra xxx❤️