Rex WHITING Obituary

I was so sad to hear of Rex's passing. He was my teacher at Mararoa Primary school, and so inspired me and encouraged me to read over and above my level to stretch my imagination and understanding. A wonderful teacher and man. I remember beating him at swing ball with a smile, and treasure those school days.Much love to the family at this time.

Rex's funeral today... a simple wood coffin, written all over with loving messages, placed in a small metal dinghy on a trailer, a fishing rod with cardboard fish on its line, towed by his car with his nickname it's number plate. A funeral service made up of messages full of anecdotes and memories, mine included, read out by the celebrant. Smiles, laughter, tears, lots of hugs. I could not be there but watched and listened to the live streaming at home. A box of tissues, the bin beside me to catch the wet ones. Farewell Rex, most long-standing friend. RIP.

Rex was indeed my longest-standing friend, we having met at kindergarten (age 4) and knowing each other before starting Borough School and in the same classes together all the way through until the end of High School, and then in the same group at Teachers' College. You, Moyra, were his High School sweetheart! We all go back such a long way. I can still picture quite vividly the little boy (about 8 years old) coming to school in a taxi and then very slowly and painfully, with the use of 2 sticks, making his way to the classroom. I remember feeling so sorry for him, wishing I could help in some way, and appreciating his courage in pushing on through that illness. He was always one of the nicer boys at school, most boys being yuk! to us back then.

I always looked forward to and enjoyed Rex's company on his fishing trips down south and working with him as my appraiser. It was great to catch up just a couple of weeks ago at Cattle Flat. Great company and a real gentleman. Our thoughts are with Rex's family st this sad time.
Kind regards Richie Crean and kay Teviotdale'.

To Moyra, Bronnie, Campbell and your whanau. I was deeply saddened to hear of Rex's passing. I have many memories of his time as Principal while at Otautau. He was an inspiring and effective leader and I feel privileged to have known and learned from the best! May you be comforted by the outpouring of love surrounding you. With Aroha Julia Waikato (nee Willis)

Sad to hear of Rex's passing. He was a great Principal for Ashburton Intermediate. He will be sadly missed by all. Ross McAuley

Sad to hear of Rex's passing, he was a great principal for Ashburton Intermediate. Will be sadly missed

Have heaps of great memories of Rex during his time as Principal at Otautau School. He was always very kind to me and a great leader at the School and in the Otautau community. We feel very fortunate to have known Rex and Moyra over many years. We send big hugs to you Moyra. Thinking of you and the family and in the days ahead as you miss Rex. Love Barry and Shirley Keen.

Lots of very special memories of Rex while he was my Principal at Otautau School. He was very kind to me and a great leader at the school and in the Otautau community. We feel fortunate to know both Rex and Moyra over the years. We send big hugs to you Moyra and family. Will be thinking of you all at this time and in the days ahead. Love Barry and Shirley Keen

So saddened to hear the news of Rex's passing we both have very fond memories of your time in Otautau with your family and our family. Memories are a treasure and at a time later they will make you smile. Sending hugs and our thoughts to you all at this sad time. Colin and Diane Lindsay