Malcolm Fergus Gillanders-Ryan died in a car crash near Taupo. Photo/Supplied
Jocelyn Gillanders-Ryan says her dad was a proud, private man who "absolutely adored her".
Malcolm Fergus Gillanders-Ryan, 77, died when two utes collided on Broadlands Rd, near Centennial Drive on April 12.
Mr Gillanders-Ryan married his wife Beverly at 26 and the couple had lived in Taupo for the last 50 years.
A "talented and successful engineer," Jocelyn said her dad spent all his time in the workshop.
"Growing up we spent most of our quality time together in there," she said.
"He was a great artist, and we drew together a lot."
Jocelyn said her father was a hard man, but his life had never been easy.
"His dad died when he was 12 so he was raised by his mum," she said.
Mr Gillanders-Ryan had lost his two eldest children in a motorbike accident when they were teenagers.
Despite the challenges he faced, including suffering from dyslexia, Mr Gillanders-Ryan earned a degree in engineering.
"He could weld, incredibly detailed welding and he was qualified as a diesel mechanic as well," Jocelyn said.
Having retired at 70 he was always looking for things to fill the time.
"It's no secret, in the last few years he became old and tired," his daughter said.
"He had a bad back and a buggered knee and I never saw him complain."
Jocelyn joked about her dad's terrible hoarding, but said they'd found a few treasures cleaning it all up for him.
"He scared the living hell out of my boyfriends. I was his little girl and he absolutely adored me," she said.
"When he met my husband though, he gave him a hug. I guess dads know best."
Mr Gillanders-Ryan became best friends with his son-in-law often working together on projects.
"They were on the phone to each other probably more than he spoke to me," Jocelyn said.
"He also loved his two grandkids, Cameron is 4 and Scotty is 1 and a half."
Jocelyn said her father would be remembered most for his generosity, his great sense of humour and for how hard he worked.
"My father is a man like no other. He gave me life, nurtured me, taught me, dressed me, fought for me, held me, shouted at me, kissed me, but most importantly he loved me unconditionally.
"There are not enough words I can say to describe just how important my father was to me and what a powerful influence he continues to be."
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