David (generally known as Dave) took on the role of Honorary Treasurer of our Association in 2004 and still held that position at the time of his death on 8 September 2017.
Dave had no experience in accounting, but the combination of his degree in electrical engineering from Canterbury University and his IT experience with IBM and the Bank of New Zealand meant that it was no trouble to him to develop a simple but very effective system for recording financial transactions and membership records of OBRA.
At every committee meeting Dave would give a precise report on finances and membership. As a Treasurer should, he also ensured that funds were spent properly and wisely.
Dave however was much more than the "money man". His contributions to committee discussions on all aspects of the Association's activities were much valued. He was always among the first to volunteer for tasks such as the now defunct annual inorganic rubbish collection and the bi-annual distribution of the Bay View newsletter.
Dave's mobility was significantly impaired as a result of a serious lung infection four years ago. However, he showed great determination to ensure that his contribution to OBRA and his enjoyment of life were not diminished. Bay Views were delivered and other journeys made on the Mobility Scooter available from the Freyberg Pool building. Dave and his wife Marg continued to enjoy their love of travel to exotic places. Their last trip was in April when they organised a group, including several Oriental Bay residents, to undertake an enjoyable 10 day adventure in Borneo.
Dave always had a positive view on life, a great sense of humour and an infectious smile. He was a very active member of our community, playing bridge with a group of mainly local men and car-pooling with friends to get to the Royal Wellington Golf Club. He was a regular and popular member of the Club Active at the Freyberg Gym, and with his wife Marg, hosted many memorable functions for their wide circle of friends.
Our community has lost a very valued and popular member.
— Colin Blair, Bay View newsletter 70, November 2017