It is with great sadness we acknowledge the loss of a great friend and exemplary Rotarian. Graeme Barrell passed away last week peacefully in the arms of his loving family, aged 88.Graeme had been a Rotary International member for 60 years, serving at the Hutt Valley, Auckland East and for the past 12 years at Kapiti Rotary where he became a Sapphire Pin Paul Harris Fellow for his outstanding contribution to Rotary and his community over the years. He did much to promote the clubs profile through deed and contributions to media. Latterly Graeme became an Honorary member.
Graeme had a very full life, head boy at Scotts College, a champion swimmer, keen water polo player, surf life saver, rugby player and cricketer. Latterly a keen golfer and aviator. He was very successful insurance agent and went on to become general manager for Tower Insurance.
Graeme has been a Justice of the Peace for 50 years and a Marriage Celebrant. His generosity and compassion was never found wanting.
The end of a long life well-lived, the sympathy of many friends, both in New Zealand and overseas, go out to Shirley, Jenny, Andrew, Peter, and the extended Barrell family. He was a much loved 'Dee‘ by his grandchildren, and one great-grandchild.