Ex-naval officer farewelled

Photo / Herald on Sunday

A former top-ranking naval officer died only minutes after delivering a speech to old comrades at a reunion last weekend.

Hans Kenneth McRoberts, 75, suffered a heart attack and died at the Royal New Zealand Navy Gunners Reunion at Auckland's Devonport Naval Base eight days ago.

His wife of 47 years, Dorothy, was sitting beside him when he died.

Reunion organiser Jim Senton said after the official speeches McRoberts, from Thames, was asked to share tales of his own "escapades" during his 20-year career.

"He was with his mates, that's the important thing. He had a good laugh and enjoyed himself immensely," he said.

A Navy spokeswoman said McRoberts began his naval career in the volunteer reserves in 1953.

The father-of-two served on various vessels including Black Prince, Royalist, Otago and Taranaki.

He was awarded long service and good conduct medals in 1969 and earned a medal for his active service in Malaya.

Before he retired in 1974 McRoberts was promoted to Petty Officer, Chief Petty Officer and Warrant Officer.

A celebration of McRobert's life was held in Thames yesterday.

His family did not return calls this week.