Wynne Gray: Salute to Scruff - People make the world

Tony was a regular spectator at international matches at Eden Park. Photo / File

Ageing generally creates more caution. Most of us become more risk-averse and content to operate within our usual boundaries while we nod with a range of emotions at those who defy that stereotype.

Those exceptions are the achievers who thirst for life and all it offers. One of those is my old mate Tony, aka Scruff, who has always been an optimist throughout his successful work and family life.

Challenges were to be embraced and enjoyed, life was a thrilling privilege.

A while back he began to write a book called Why Not? about his life, a memoir of experiences, thoughts and philosophy to leave for his loved ones and others who might be inspired by its content.

That title was pure Tony. Not Why but Why Not?

Writing the book as he says, was not for the faint-hearted. Doing something that far outside your comfort zone was daunting and even more so for Tony who has been battling with the cancer which has now confined him to his bed. In spite of his difficulties, his enthusiasm stayed like the warmth of the weather beaming through the window.

He was well into his writing when we first chatted about the project. He was very organised and managing the work around visits from the nursing staff earlier this year. How he completed the task I'm not sure but again that was a sign of his passion.

Relationships were at the core of Tony's life.

"My view is that people make the world go around, not money and not technology. They are mere lubricants to making it happen," he wrote. "People are the prime movers. We are social animals and thrive on relationships and sharing our talents."

Tony loved his sailing, played footy and although I don't remember him playing cricket, he was a regular spectator at international matches at Eden Park, preferring a spot high up in the concrete terraces. He may catch up with the cricket today in Christchurch.

He would be asking the New Zealand side to challenge themselves and the West Indies at every turn, to be flexible in their plans and thinking and to embrace the match.

Time spent with Tony was boisterously stimulating and he hopes that spirit is infectious for those who delve into his recollections of an adventurously questioning life.