Kathie, I know Liam already said it but you really were like our second mother. It might get overused but I think at least for the two of us that statement is as true as it gets. What you meant to me and so many of Kurt & Dreke's close friends was so genuinely special. It would have been so annoying having us all around all the time - that's why no one else's parents wanted to do it - but you literally welcomed all of us unconditionally, Because you & Mike basically let us all live at Austin Road every weekend for the last 20+ years means that so many of all our best memories as young men, and even more recently, include you, and we are all really lucky for that. You are, to this very day, one of the most genuinely funny and quick-witted people I have ever met. I always felt your love and how proud you were of me. I will feel that forever. You had a such a huge impact on my life and I am a much better man because of it. Thank you so much for all that you did for me. Love you, mate. Jacko

Kathie - you weren’t a regular mum, you were a cool mum. Thank you for welcoming me into your home on countless occasions. It was always a highlight of university holidays or weekends in the early days of working in Auckland when Dreke would invite me up to Austin Rd or on the boat. It’s a testament to you how many of us claim you as our ‘second mum’. The way you looked after and loved your boys unconditionally was so special to witness. You had time for everyone you came across, whether it be me, or any of Dreke or Kurt’s friends, or someone you just met on the street. I am so lucky to have been one of the many people that knew you. I am heartbroken that you were taken far too young. All of us that knew you and loved you and miss you will make sure that Rafferty and August, and any other grandkids that may come along, know where they get their spirit and love of life from, as it lives on in them.

Kathie we were very blessed to have known and loved you. From the first moment I met Kathie she made me feel like we had known each other for some time. She was certainly an accomplished and engaging conversationalist. Mike and Kathie always made us feel like family and for that I will remember always. The times my family spent with Kathie were always filled with laughter and fun. The many Friday nights I spent at the Verkuylen household and believe me there were a few Kathie would be the life of the party. How she managed to whip up a meal in a flash still has me in awe. Jo would often mention Kathie had the most organised kitchen she has ever seen. She even had the spices in alphabetical order. Many memories have been made and cherished with this beautiful amazing lady. Kathie was an huge support to me and my children when we lost Jo and I will forever be grateful for her love and support. Kathie spoke for me at Jo's memorial service and spoke so beautifully, yet another beautiful memory of Kathie. To Mike ,Dreke and Frankie ,Rafferty and August. Kurt and Elyse , Kathie will be remembered always and spoken of often. There are so many memories we all hold and will talk of always. Cheers to the beautiful soul who made everything more exciting. Heaven gained quite the angel when you left us.

Our dearest Kathie, you were a beautiful, vivacious, fun loving and giving friend. Over the years we enjoyed your friendship, wonderful hospitality, fun times and many a wine. Ok, and you as well Mike, what a loving family. One example of Kathie’s freely given love and support was when Heather was going through chemo, she would unselfishly drive down to Auckland to take Heather for treatment not only to give me a day off but to be there for her😘. Kathie you were a star. Don’t party too hard you two. Kathie you certainly will be missed, remembered and loved for ever. Paddy ❤️🥂

Kathie - my second mum. You will be sorely missed. I have such fond memories of spending many weekends with you and the family. I’m sure you probably got sick of having me around - but you never showed it! You were such a fantastic host and it was always a great party with you around whether that was at Austin Road, on the boat or at countless other places. Thinking of you, Mike, Dreke and Kurt. Rest assured that Raffy and August will know how awesome you were. Lots of love, Liam

Kathie, you were such an amazing mum to one of my oldest and closest friends, and also a second mum to me. You always made me feel welcome in your home, whether it was when I was 15 and having one of my first beers, or when I was 28 and you invited me to spend Christmas with you and the boys when I couldn’t be with my family. I’m so sorry you were taken so soon, and far too early from all of us, but especially Raffy and August. But we will ensure they grow up surrounded my the memory of you and knowing how special you are. Looking forward to a glass of bubbles with you in the next life xo

We are deeply saddened by the loss of our very close and long time friend, taken too soon. For Us... The over 25 years of Mid Winter Christmas's. Dreke being our Page Boy on our Special Day and Kurt's Conception. Countless good times on the Water, and round the Fire and Pool. Speaking Swahili into the morning hours. Mike and Kathie willingly opened their home to us when we needed it. Love for her Family, Love of Life, Love of Socialising, Love of Ros'e and Bubbles, Kathie was a very loving and caring person, and a very Special Friend. Your Star will forever Shine Bright in our Sky. xx

Dear Kathie, I will always have fond memories of you. I am grateful for all the generosity and support you and Mike have shown me over the years; from overstaying at your house on the weekends to always being the band's biggest fan. You will be missed.

It was you: That put the finishing touches on my special day. It was you: That held my hand when life was not going so well. It was you: That pulled us together. Yes Kathy, it was you. Now we are a bit lost but will never forget. Love for ever, Mark and Megan

Dear Kathie You made me laugh You made me cry Often at the same time I’m not gonna lie I met you first When you were just 43 With bright orange nails And a new Ford GTP I thought you were cool With really great hair You knew what to say You knew what to wear You had such a way Of putting everyone at ease With a glass of rosè And some fancy cheese You were the hostess I aspire to be With a smile on your face And a big hug for me Your heart so big Would help anyone out Especially if they had Four legs and a snout There were times you suffered There were times it was tough There were times you thought You’d just had enough But with the love of Mike Dreke, Kurt and us all You were never alone Your cup stayed full And now that you Are sans souci The pain is over You are free You were funny and kind And caring and loud The legacy you’ve left Will make you proud I fulfilled my promise As you lay in state No hairs on your chin And your boobs looked great I miss you Kathie This will never pass I’ll think of you always I’ll raise your glass I’m sad you’re gone I’ll just have to wait To see you again Love you to bits, Kate To Mike, Dreke and Frankie, Kurt and Elyse, Raffie and August Your beautiful family has lost its matriarch May the love of your family and friends Lift you up now and in the years to come Much love from the Davies family

Kathie our Best friend and mate for over 40 yrs. We have countless memories of Kathie and the fun times we shared together on many holidays camping, travelling overseas or tripping around NZ. In typical Kathie fashion she could befriend anyone whether they were walking their dog on the beach, cleaning our rooms, or having a drink in a bar, she soon knew most things about them and their families. She had a knack for talking to anyone about anything and making them feel comfortable. Kathie was David and Sarah's second Mum. She gave them their first haircuts and spent time doing girly fun stuff with Sarah. Kathie was always there to offer her advise and support to David and Sarah whilst they were growing up and into their adult years. Kathie was always fun to be around and we would often have a glass of bubbles or Rose' in our hands. A true friend is someone who is is Loyal, Dependable, Supportive ,A Confidant, Positive,Thoughtful and Empathetic. Kathie was all of these things to us and much much more. An elegant, charming, beautiful lady. Who is missed by us everyday The Fabers Alan and Sharon, David and Hannah, Sarah and Chris

To Raff and Augie…. Hi Boys, it is a sad thing to lose a loved relative. The first thing I want to say to you both is that you are blessed to have been born into an amazing family. Your Dad and your Mum, your uncle Kurt and auntie Alice love you both so very much and of course your Opa will be in your lives for along time to come, and will watch you you grow to be strong, loving men to carry on the Verkuylen name. It is sad that you had such a short time with your Nannie. She was your biggest fan and would look forward with such delight to when she would see you next. No matter who she met, they would be shown pictures of her Raff and Augie and be told all about you both from birth to your first tooth through to the first word you spoke. She proudly shared every precious moment with all her relatives and friends. She was so very proud of you both. In the years to come, you may remember the day we gathered to celebrate Nannies wonderful life. She would have been so happy that you were so close to her that day, and laughed at the lovely pictures you drew on her casket and watched in wonder as she was carried from the room by the people she loved. If you memory fades a little over time, that’s ok, as all of the tributes, shared memories and wonderful words of you beautiful Nannie are collected together for you to relect on when you feel an urge to be close to her. The most special thing to know is that Nannie loved you so much and would have done anything in her power to make you happy. I can clearly remember seeing the photos of the last christmas your family spent together. The one that stands out for me is the one of you both in the swimming pool with your Dad, Uncle Kurt, Opa and Nannie. Everyone was looking and smiling at the camera except for Nannie who was looking directly and lovingly at you boys. You were her world. Please ensure you share with those that are yet to come her memory. Keep Nannie as close to your hearts as you were to hers.

Growing up in Whangarei I think I must have spent about as many weekends at Austin Road as I did at my own house, it was almost a second home. Kathy was forever a warm and generous host (& Mike too of course), always welcoming me and whichever other stragglers Kurt had dragged around with a smile, a hug, and a laugh. To Mike, Kurt, Dreke & families my heart goes out. Ka aroha hoki

Kathie, your special ability was to make others feel special, cared for and included because you projected genuine interest and concern for the people around you. A "people person" with a passionate appitite for life and a wicked sense of humour. We miss you.

Kathie was always a fun, kind, caring person who brought joy and “was the life of the party”. She was also a very generous person. I remember when I broke my leg at Mike & Kathie’s place, the very next day she and Kurt came to visit with magazines and treats for me. Unfortunately Mike & Kathie couldn’t make it to our engagement party so she took me out for lunch and gave me a gift to celebrate, it was a special lunch date and I’ll always treasure that memory. Give Mathew a hug for me please sweetie. Big love to all the family, always here for you.

I can feel your presence, but still can't believe you're not here Kathie. When I pass by our childhood home or gaze down the harbour, I can see your smile and hear your laughter. you were a steadfast rock to your family and friends. love you always, your 'big brother' Jon

We have known Kathie as a woman of natural hospitality and warm interest in people. During our first visit in NZ after a flight of 28 hours we could stay overnight before the start of our trip through the country. And after Christmas Mike and Kathie took us up north to Cape Reinga. During their several vacations in Europe through the years her interest in everybody she met only grew. The reunions at Bert's showed a woman in her element; with a glas of wine in her hands chatting, in english or if necessary with hands and feet, with all her Dutch family. When our son Rik in 2014 wanted to go on an adventure as au-pair to NZ, Kathie (and Mike) volunteered immediately as his Kiwi-parents if necessary. That was a big relief for us as his parents. And they sticked to their word when Rik's first family was not what was to be expected. Good with the kids but neglect from the parents. While looking for a new family Rik could stay in Auckland. "I even got a cookie with the tea!", he said. They went to the Bay of Islands to their boat, Kathie went supping with him. He learned to eat all kinds of exotic food, like great shrimps. He felt welcome and could fill his tank with new energy for his second NZ-au-pair-family, who was fantastic. In 2022 we returned to NZ after a 5 week vacation in Australia. We were able to celebrate Christmas and New Year in Whangarei. Kathie already had suffered a great deal with her desease. She kept forgetting things that had just been said, but all the time she tried to be the host with interest, glas of wine in her hand. And during the fotoshoot with the Kwaakdoëzerock-T-shirts we took as presents from Holland she came up with the idea of a fun-crazy-foto; with our backs to the camera and hands on each others buds. We are very glad to have known Kathie, from the other side of the world. And also glad to have been able to see her one last time then. She truly was a Queen of All Hearts.

Kathie has always been there for me through thick and thin to coach me through lifes challenges. I will miss your positive advice that always made me feel so much better. When you faced your biggest challenge yet, i was determined to see you through to make everyday count as you always did anyway and be our Kathie. You faced life with joy and appreciation and bravery. You gave and gave to so many. Im so grateful for being a piece of your life and having you in mine. You were a determined and wonderful wife, mother and grandmother and this shows so well in those you have left behind. They are your legacy. I remember a saying i once saw that says...one day we will die, but every other day we will live...and that is you to a tee. Rest well my friend, i will miss you with every ounce of my being but will try to be the person you taught me to be. God bless.

Dear Mike, Dreke, Kurt, Elyse, Francesca, Rafferty and August, we have always enjoyed your sweet, beautiful Kathie. So happy that we were able to meet her in the Netherlands together with Mike. She was so sweet, so interested and caring. And always so many beautiful stories about you, the family and New Zealand. She will always have a very special place in our hearts. We cherish the wonderful memories of dear Kathie. You also have a place in our hearts. We think about you a lot. Lots of hugs and kisses to all of you. Gert-Jan, Jolanda, Marco and Chantal. xxxx

So many beautiful memories we had the the absolute privilege of sharing with the lovely Kathie, between summers in the bay, multiple six60 concerts, new years eve parties and dinners at home, we will forever treasure the conversations, the laughs, and the love that Kathie radiated. She taught us where to find the southern cross and the pointers on a starry night on the boat, she taught us what makes a good rosè, you would never catch her without one, She tried to teach us how paddle board once, ask Greg how that went. There was never a dull moment when Kathie was around, her beauty, elegance and ability to make everyone feel loved will be missed so much. While the bay of islands is such a special place to us all, it's times like these that make us realise just how much it is the people that make it that way. So much love for you both Mike and Kathie x

So many beautiful memories we had the the absolute privilege of sharing with the lovely Kathie, between summers in the bay, multiple six60 concerts, new years eve parties and dinners at home, we will forever treasure the conversations, the laughs, and the love that Kathie radiated. She taught us where to find the southern cross and the pointers on a starry night on the boat, she taught us what makes a good rosè, you would never catch her without one, She tried to teach us how paddle board once, ask Greg how that went. There was never a dull moment when Kathie was around, her beauty, elegance and ability to make everyone feel loved will be missed so much. While the bay of islands is such a special place to us all, it's times like these that make us realise just how much it is the people that make it that way. So much love for you both Mike and Kathie x

To Mike, Dreke & Frankie, Kurt & Alise and families. Such a sad day, we shall miss Kathie's effervescent style, fun times and time spent with Mike and Kathie as a couple and the guys. Forever in our hearts Kathie, gone, but certainly never forgotten. All our love, David and Gae Sinclair xox

Dear Mike We are heartbroken to hear this very sad news. We are sorry we were not there to celebrate the life of such a beautiful lady. We have great memories of all the fun times we shared with both of you, the fancy dress parties and nights at Killer Prawn and the terrible hangovers the next day! I will treasure the day I last saw Kathie in the salon having her hair done, she held my hand whilst she was having her hair washed and told me she loved me, it brought tears to my eyes, but there she was as glamorous as ever, and yes I told her how lovely her nails were, polished and perfect whilst she held my hand. I sent you a message that day and came home to tell Chris and we both talked about the fun times we were lucky to share with you both. We cannot begin to understand the grief you all must be going through, she will be so sadly missed by so many people because she was a beautiful person inside and out. Always know that when you look up to the stars she will be the brightest one in the sky. Sending our love and condolences to you and all your family. Chris & Jeanette

The lovely Kathleen Duncan Uffindell Met Mike Verkuylen and in love she fell At the time just 17 years old My brother Mike knew he’d stuck gold Hairdressing was her trade A talent that was never to fade An intelligent woman full of wit and charm Taking life in her stride with strength and calm Immaculate nails and beautiful hands Perfect to display future wedding bands Mike travelled abroad to do his OE I hugged Kathie as she cried “will he come back to me?” Of course he did as there was a future to pursue A beautiful wedding held here in this special venue Two gorgeous boys completed the team A close knit family, living the dream Many happy times and holidays we shared My kids always knew that Aunty Huia cared Whether it was in the snow or out in the sun There was lots of laughs and heaps of fun Catching fish and playing in the sand We’ll never forget Kurt and his smally hand! You introduced me to the mosh pit many years ago What fun that was, the Bryan Adams show A truly special confidant, and very treasured friend One whose opinion and advice I could always depend Vivacious witty caring and kind Leaving brokenhearted us that are left behind Kathie you will be sorely missed Deeply loved And never forgotten 🌷❤️ We love you to bits ❤️❤️

So sorry for your loss Mike & family. Unfortunately we weren’t able to attend the funeral, but what a beautiful send off. Very thankful to be able to livestream it. My favourite memories of Kathie were our 1st of the month sit downs. We would get together, have some girl chat, discuss the worlds problems and of course get all the statements sorted for Wynn Fraser Paints. A job that took most of the day. Kathie would give me great advice, tell me funny stories and mostly, talk about her boys and how proud she was of them, Mike included. She joked a few times that we were ‘Kath & Kim’ in her best Aussie accent. She will always be the Kath to my Kim. She treated not only me, but Jamie as if we were part of the family right from the start. And when Kacey came along she and Mike visited with lots of hugs, more great advice and lovely gifts. Kathie paid great attention to what people liked, she made great notes. She would be sure to ask you about it later, or keep it in mind to go in your Christmas hamper at the end of year. She always wanted people to feel seen, heard and appreciated. She was an amazing lady who made everyone feel welcomed and loved.

Well Kathy, still hard to believe I won’t see your beautiful smile again. I will so miss our chats about fashion, handbags & of course doggies 🐶 You were a beautiful loving lady and I’m so privileged to have gotten to know you. Heaven has certainly gained themselves a beautiful angel 😇. Goodbye for now beautiful lady, until we meet again. Xx♥️💕♥️

We were so saddened to hear the passing of Kathie. Our thoughts are with you all. I’m so happy I was able to see you in September Kathie. Rest easy now, the lady with the beautiful smiling eyes. Maree & Kerry - Melbourne

Dear Mike, "Moike" Greg and I are so sorry for your loss of Kathie. We may have only met briefly on that memorable Croatia vacation, but I knew right away what a special couple you were. I felt an instant friendship bond with Kathie, with her cute style and sense of humor. I knew she was fun when she hoped on the back of the scooters that we rented wearing her short skirt and showing her hot legs. I watched the video service and can see all the LOVE. And the beautiful family that came from you two. That was in God's plan. Hold on to your beautiful memories. Love and hugs, from your California friends.

Met Kathie and Mike through mutual friends and you both became a firm favourite to spend time with...kids loved your pool parties as well. So many good memories, laughs and fun. Kathie...so glad I got to meet you, have a drink and a boogie. Cheers to all the good times.. Far too many to list but it's been a blast x

Sitting in the bay of islands watching beautiful Kathie’s funeral the sky and water both blue she is here and always will be cheers to you beautiful lady I’m glad your suffering is over will miss your beautiful you RIP love to you Mike and your beautiful family xx

So sad Mike, But you must be proud to have had 2 wonderful boys together. Lots of Love, we will all miss Kath ❤️ ♥️

To Mike, the boys and all who loved and knew Kathie - My heart breaks for you all but I know that today will truly be a celebration of the incredible woman Kathie is! As a teenager, I had the honour of meeting Kathie and Mike at my best friends family Barbecue - I was immediately taken aback by her beauty and grace but most importantly - her warmth and kindness. From that evening on - she would always hold space for me and ask me how I was doing and refer to little things I had mentioned in the past - she never forgot a detail and always made me feel special and heard. The last time I saw Kathie was in March 2023 and as always - she was gorgeous and warm. Seeing Kathie and Mikes unwavering love for one another throughout the years has truly given me so much joy and happiness. Thank you for all that you have done Kathie - what a woman! Sending you all so much love, light and strength from across the ocean. Mel M.

Dear Mike and family We are deeply sorry to hear of Kathie's passing. We met only once in Queenstown, early 2019, at a boat/BBQ event. We spent a couple of hours with you (Mike and Kathie) but it was a highlight of our trip! We had such a good laugh with Kathie especially. Even today, we still laugh about one or two things Kathie had said to us that evening! She was hilarious.We had planned to get in contact with you again on a return to NZ, but COVID slowed everything down unfortunately. Hoping you find some peace at this incredibly difficult time. Best wishes to you and your family for now. Richard and Will