Sentimental Journey
On Sunday it will be Barneys 99th birthday, so it seemed the time was right to take him and Stella on their final journey. Barney always said that Whangarei was his spiritual home and that is where he wanted to be finally laid to rest. But in the spirit of his ancestors who travelled to New Zealand from Scotland and then Nova Scotia leaving a little of themselves at each place they lived, we followed his wishes and scattered their ashes on the journey back to Kaurihohore where his parents and grandparents are also at rest.
First was Barney and Stellas home garden which they both loved and worked at constantly for the last 60 years. Then the 18th hole of the golf course that was on their doorstep and a huge part of their lives.
Next the native bush at Mangawhai, the biggest Kauri tree we could find.
Next Bream Bay, Langs beach. A place of special memories both at Langs and on Bream Bay fishing and playing.
The finally to the graveyard at Kaurihohore. A final sprinkle of ashes at the family graves and tomorrow the unveiling and burial in the Returned Serviceman’s section close to brother Errol and his wife. It’s been an emotional journey but one of gratitude and farewell.
The Traveling Kiwi 