Stalwart remembered for service to others

Carterton stalwart Ian Renall was farewelled yesterday. Pall bearers Kent Renall (left), Jade Smith, Steve Renall, Brett Renall, Karen Renall (obscured), Mark Renall and Reverend Jenny Chalmers. Photo / Lynda Feringa

Almost 500 people have gathered to farewell a man who will be remembered by many for his service to the Carterton community.

A funeral service celebrating the life of Ian Renall, QSM, was held at St Mark's Anglican Church in Carterton yesterday.

Mr Renall, 85, died last week after a brief battle with a brain tumour and is survived by his two sons and five grandchildren.

Speaking at the funeral, son Mark Renall described the many ways in which his father had given his time to the town.

Mr Renall served four terms on the Carterton Borough Council and was the deputy chairman of the Wellington Harbour Board.

On the vestry and as a member of St Mark's Anglican Church, he oversaw its restoration in 2002.

He was a president of the Lions Club of Carterton, the founding chairman of Keep Carterton Beautiful Committee and a senator for the Carterton Jaycee Chapter.

In 2003, he was awarded the Charles Rooking Carter Voluntary Community Services Award and then, in 2008, the Queen's Service Medal for service to his community.

"He was a leader who set high standards," Mr Renall said.

His father had also taught him and his brother Steve the value of teamwork, he said.

"He was all action, no talk - apart from 'head down, bum up'.

"You get out of life what you put in, and Dad put in a lot."

He would be remembered for his humour, his service and his "guaranteed excitement when you knocked on his door or rang him up".

While ill, he had shown great optimism, but had come to accept the end could be near.

When reminded of his age he had said to his son "I've had a great run".

The family would miss their father's guidance, care and support, Mr Renall said.

The funeral was followed by burial at the Clareville Lawn Cemetery and refreshments at the Carterton Memorial Club.

-Messages for the Renall family can be sent to PO Box 185, Carterton 5743, or can be left on Mr Renall's tribute page at www.tributes.co.nz

Ian Renall, QSM.