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Denis FAIRFAX Obituary
Denis died peacefully at Wellington Hospital on 9 April 2024. A pillar of strength, Denis was a respected member and past president of Navy League Wellington and former CEO of Wellington Free Ambulance. He was a reader, writer, historian and man of intellect. His legacy is carried on through his devoted and much loved wife Beverly; his beloved children, Andrew and Kayte; daughter-in-law Priscilla and his adored grandsons, Will, Aidan, Liam and Kaia. The Fairfax family warmly invites you to commemorate Denis's full and honourable life at his funeral service, to be held at St Theresa's Catholic Church, Plimmerton, on Monday 15 April at 11.30am, followed by burial at Whenua Tapu Cemetery at 2.00pm. The family also opens their home at 18 Steyne Ave, Plimmerton, on Friday afternoon and Saturday for those wishing to pay their respects to Denis in person and share in remembrance. Denis's memory will be cherished in the hearts of his loved ones and the communities he served. We honour a life well lived, and a gentleman well loved. Donations may be made in Denis's name to Wellington Free Ambulance at www.wfa.org.nz.
Memories and Condolences
for Denis FAIRFAX
12 Entries
Paul Dorman
October 28, 2024
I remember Denis as a uniquely kind, generous, and thoughtful man, whose company and counsel meant a great deal to twentysomething me. What I remember most vividly though was his mischievous sense of humour. He loved nothing more than when his lighthearted quips were received with just the right degree of disapproval or reprimand, and I will never forget the gleefully cheeky look he would share with us all when he achieved the sought-after response. To this day I remain convinced that the *only* motivation for Denis choosing to roast himself shirtless for hours in the Pukerua summer sun was the many satisfying rebukes he would receive from Beverly and Kayte. Nothing worthwhile is without sacrifice!
Helen Willberg
April 19, 2024
I remember Denis visiting Aunty Dorothy Challies at Pukerua Bay. He was always an interesting and interested friend of the Henderson family. Go well Denis. From Helen Willberg (née Henderson)
Desmond Woods
April 13, 2024
Denis was a fine naval officer in both the RAN and the RNZN and was a mentor to many including myself. His wisdom, kindness and wit were legendary. It was a privilege to serve with him. Vale
Sir Somerford Teagle
April 13, 2024
I was greatly saddened at the news that Denis had died. He was a constant and energetic member of the Navy League with an enquiring and erudite mind and a courteous and engaging companion. He will be greatly missed.
Leonie and I are currently away from home and unable to attend Denis's funeral but we send our sincere condolences to Beverley and her family.
Somerford Teagle
Anne Sim
April 13, 2024
Condolences to you Beverly and Family.
Sorry to hear of your loss.
Anne and George
Wyn Clout
April 13, 2024
My thoughts are with you, Beverley, and your family. Love Ailwyn.
Richard and Julie Turner
April 13, 2024
Denis, may the Lord hold you in the palm of his hand. A true gentleman who enriched all of us especially Beverly, Andrew, Kayte and family.
Gary Buck
April 12, 2024
Fond memories of the old Miramar Fire Station where we shared some great times as residents and fellow firefighters.
Philip and Dianne Roxborough
April 12, 2024
Prayers and thoughts are with Beverly and family at this time
Philip and Dianne Roxborough
Margriet Lynch
April 12, 2024
Farewell Denis... I have many good memories of your impressive singing voice in the choir of St. Theresa's, and our frequent discussions after rehearsals about NZ fisheries observers. Absolute highlight was your presentation of your trip to Antarctica - you were such a wonderful storyteller!
It was a shock to hear of your passing.
Heartfelt condolences to the Fairfax family.
Christine Stewart
April 12, 2024
Adieu, Denis, and thank you for your warm, erudite and always welcome friendship to so many of my family, over so many years. Deepest sympathy to the Fairfax family in your very great loss.
Christine and the Stewarts.
Warwick Manning
April 12, 2024
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