Minute's silence for 'inspirational' and much-loved former Dannevirke district teacher

Peter Gilvray was principal at Rua Roa School from 1972 to 1978, then returned as relieving principal until it closed in 2003.

Two words describe Peter Gilvray, inspirational and the best, friends and colleagues said when learning of the death of the man who was a leader in education in Dannevirke for more than three decades.

Mr Gilvray died at Christchurch Hospital last Friday. He was 76.

On Wednesday, Norsewood and Districts School marked his passing with a minute's silence as they lowered the flag to half mast.

The show of respect was attended by students, past associates and former Matamau School parents.

Born at Tokomaru Bay, Mr Gilvray was head teacher at Rua Roa School from 1972 until 1978, before moving to Matamau School where he was headmaster from 1979 until 1987.

He then went on to be principal of Norsewood School from 1988 until 2001, before returning to Rua Roa School as relieving principal where he remained until it was closed in 2003 by then Education Minister Trevor Mallard as part of an education review.

At the time of the closure Mr Gilvray said with 61 children and a growing role the merger was difficult to take.

After some time as relieving principal at Papatawa School, Mr Gilvray became relieving principal at Ruahine School where many of his former Rua Roa students had transferred too.

After working at many schools around our district for more than 30 years Mr Gilvray was held in very high esteem by so many and has been described as a true gentleman and professional and a great influence on so many lives.

"I had the pleasure of working on committees at Matamau School with him when my children Michelle and Tony attended and I was then delighted when Michelle taught under him at Norsewood," Norsewood School administrator Lorraine McKay said. "He was an inspiration to us all."

Mrs McKay's daughter, Michelle Mitchelle, said the things she did and learnt with Mr Gilvray were truly amazing.

"I am honoured I then got to work alongside him too. Mr G was one of a kind and I can't start to describe how much he influenced who I am today," she said. "Mr G was one of those teachers you will never forget and the best boss anyone could hope for."

Norsewood's Bernard Murphy remembers Mr Gilvray as "the most awesome man".

And Anna Kirker recalled the adventures down at the creek and the tricks Mr Gilvray would sometimes play on his students, as well as his sense of humour and cheeky laugh.

"He was an awesome teacher who was dedicated to our school," she said on an online tribute page.

Mr Gilvray was also involved with the Lions Club and was a skilled hockey player who saved many a match as the team's goalie.