By KATHERINE HOBY
Gavin Dash's father could remember just one selfish thing his only son had done in his life - arriving in the world at the early hour of 5.30 am.
Colin Dash recalled his son being born early on October 11, 1975, at Waitakere Hospital, just down the road from the chapel where friends and family farewelled him yesterday.
The 24-year-old student disappeared from his Wellington flat at the end of last September. His body was later found buried in two sites on Makara Hill, in Wellington. A man has been charged with his murder.
Yesterday, Colin Dash said that although the family had enjoyed Gavin's successes in life, it was his gentle nature he was loved for. Gavin had left him many things to think about, Mr Dash said.
"When he was taken from us so suddenly our lives went to a big mess; a big piece fell out of them.
"Gavin, we're missing you terribly," he said, addressing the photograph of his son atop the casket.
Cousin Mark Atwell said Gavin had been "the perfect cousin and friend to grow up with."
He said his cousin loved slices of toast with butter for breakfast, but hated the water and did not swim. There were a lot of happy memories to choose from.
"I remember how we would talk late into the night. Gavin was a great listener. Above all he was a contributor. Undoubtedly he would have gone on to personal and professional success. It is tragic for the life of a man to be taken away who was loved by so many."
Officiant Beverley Hildreth read messages from family in Wales, including Gavin's paternal grandparents.
Gavin's Auckland grandfather Ken Harsant was overwhelmed with grief at the death of his grandson, with whom he had a close relationship. He followed the casket from the chapel with faltering steps as he clutched Gavin's photograph, tears escaping down his cheeks.
Mourners were invited to put flowers from the Dash family's garden on the casket, and say their own farewell to the murder victim. His casket was then carried out to the strains of Dire Straits' Brothers in Arms.
An unemployed painter, 26-year-old David Gates, is in a psychiatric hospital awaiting trial for murder.
Dash family remember selfless son
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