Aunty Maureen was a lady with an indomitable spirit, she always demonstrated love and kindness toward our family members. I remember the visits to Maureen and Alan's home at Wainuiomata, it was always a baker's delight on display, a talent Maureen is universally known for. Maureen was a stickler for proper behaviour and if you did stray from the path of that acceptable behaviour you were soon reminded by this lady. You soon learn as you move through life, how valuable it is to have people like this around you in your formative years as you are shaped by a good and loving environment with sound values I remember the telephone conversations we have had over the years and the Patea stories she would recount, particularly in regard to her "stirring" brother (our father) Life at times for that family we're not the easiest and the strong will that we all know Maureen for, no doubt was developed during this time On the occasions that our family members visited Manuka St over the later years we were always greeted warmly and have many fond memories our Aunty Maureen and Uncle Alan, may you both now be reunited and rest in peace

My Auntie Maureen was one of a kind. A loving, strong woman, who was a force of nature. She loved fiercely and was always there for us during hard times and joy. I always remember Uncle Alan and Auntie Maureen driving all night from Auckland to Wellington when my brother died, so they could be there for us and support us during that time. My Auntie has always been a big part of my life, with one of my earliest memories is of Auntie Maureen helping Mum feed Caroline and I in our high chairs. She has always been there for us and I have many happy memories of being with my Aunt, from the many holidays we spent together, to all the birthdays and weddings, Auntie Maureen is always a large part of these memories. I always knew that Auntie Maureen cared and loved us. When I was a child, she was always there telling us she would take care of us and it was so easy to know how she felt. She couldn’t do enough for us and nothing was ever too much trouble. She will and always be a big figure in my life, even from halfway across the world. I will miss her and she will always have a big place in my heart.