Paul Holmes talks about Phil ArmstrongKEY POINTS:
"A superhero and a friend, as well as a dad" is how Phil Armstrong's son Matt farewelled him this afternoon.
Hundreds packed into the Holy Trinity in Parnell to send off the man who had produced the Paul Holmes Breakfast Show for 21 years.
Known to many listeners as "Grumpy" or the "Grumpmeister", Armstrong was diagnosed with stomach cancer earlier this year. He died on Wednesday May 7.
As well as clips from his early broadcasting life, the congregation heard warm affectionate tributes from those who had worked along side Armstrong for years - as well as those who had been part of his community in Titirangi.
Paul Holmes told the mourners and Mr Armstrong's family he wanted them to know just how much he was respected and loved by those within the industry - and even read out an email he'd received from Helen Clark, saying that she and her staff would miss dealing with him.
His boss for 15 years, Bill Francis of the Radio Network, recalled his passion and love for words and books as well as saying he had been a "pivotal figure" in the history of Newstalk ZB.
Mr Armstrong is survived by his wife Sue, and two sons Christopher and Matthew.
