Charlie Stevens

Waimarino Bulletin, Volume 4, Issue 45, 28 April 1987, Page 10

Charlie Stevens

Donald Charles (Charlie) Stevens, a wellknown Waimarino resident died recently, aged 71. Charlie Stevens was born and bred in the Waimarino and spent his entire life in the area. He was born in Rangataua, one of nine children. Charlie first worked as a shepherd for a time on Collier's farm, Field's Track. He then held a driving job for 'Scotty' Martin who operated school buses and ran a carrier business in the district. Charlie then went on to driving heavy machinery for the New Zealand Forest Service for some years. He was a keen sportsman, playing in the forwards for the Karioi Rugby Club and managing the team. Deerstalking and trout fishing were also among his passions and he frequently travelled a circuit of local lakes and rivers. Charlie was involved in the search and rescue mission looking for survivors of the Tangiwai disaster on Christmas Eve 1953. He was assigned to search the banks of the Whangaehu River long after most of the other searchers had gone home, because of his knowledge of the area. He was not actively involved in many clubs in the Waimarino but enjoyed a quiet game of snooker with his friends at the Waimarino Club. He and his wife Rose married in 1940 and had three

children. Friends of Charlies' remember the wry sense of humour of a man who was liked and respected in the community.

His funeral service in Ohakune's Presbyterian Church was attended by about 100 friends and relatives and the service was conducted by Rev Bob

Peck. He was pre-deceased by his wife Rose and is survived by his daughter and two sons and his seven grandchildren.