Obituary

Forest and Bird, Issue 250, 1 November 1988, Page 40

Obituary

Roy Lynch

Royal Cullen Nelson, President of the Society from 1955 to 1974, was a person of imposing physical stature and even greater standing as a man of integrity and wisdom. Born at Petone in 1897, one of a family of eight, though completing his formal education at the primary level he never ceased to learn and grow in his lifetime. Returning from war service in France in 1919 he worked on farms and in the bush before beginning a final career as Warehouse Manager for R.L. Button. He was one of the first Boy Scouts in New Zealand, continuing this association throughout his lifetime. He was awarded the "‘Silver Tui’’ for his services. Roy Nelson (‘‘Maire’’ was his Scout name) was a significant person in the lives of hundreds of scouts. An Executive Member of the Society for many years, he was elected President in 1955. During his term the "‘Save Manapouri Campaign’’ initiated by the Society produced the largest petition then seen in New Zealand. Other campaigns included the West Coast beech forests, Maud and Mangere Island to preserve the kakapo and black robin, Waipoua Kauri Forest, deer and opossum control, National and Forest Parks, mining and water soil conservation. During his presidency the Society was granted Royal patronage.

Roy Nelson's personal integrity, and his devotion to its objectives, encouraged people to gift land and money to the Society. His deep knowledge, speaking and writing skills, respect and regard for people, made him an unequalled advocate for the Society. Ministers of the Crown and departmental heads consulted him on conservation matters. He continued his interest in people and environmental issues until his death. Roy Nelson was a traditionalist who jealously guarded the high ideals for the Society set in 1923 by its founder the late Capt. Sanderson of Paekakariki.

Mr Nelson died on September 5, 1988 at the age of 91. His many friends and representatives of Scouting, Royal Forest and Bird Society and other organisations attended the funeral. Former President Mr Justice Ellis, was one of three distinguished mourners speaking of Roy Nelson's great contribution to New Zealand society.