McMurdo, Kahu (Nan) nee Ruki
After a five year tough battle Nan peacefully passed away on Saturday 4th of May surrounded with her family. Her career encompassed time at NZ Post, Glengarry Pharmacy and Sylvan Bank Pharmacy. Her early retirement was focused on reconnecting with her Te Oa Māori and whakapapa. Nan was known in the community for her loud laugh, challenging others for what she believed in, working hard and helping others. She was creative, motivated, strong, brave and giving.
Nan is the high school sweetheart and wife of Geoff who had a marriage that reflected pure love and dedication to each other for over fifty years. Nan was Mum to Jenane and Tegan who may be skinny little Māori girls but are strong because of her drive to make the most of opportunities for them both. Her two son-in-laws, Dylan and Steve, were her go-to men to fix things or complete the jobs she requested, she had a soft spot for them both.
Her joy and pride was sparked from her mokopuna Georgia, Harlan, Hapai, Nola, Roman, Oakley, Raegan and Jack. Everyone heard about them. Her strong will to not give up is present in her grandchildren.
Nan was a loved daughter of the late Sandy, the late Jessie and Marj and daughter-in-law of the late Marjory and the late Adam. She is a loved big sister and sister-in-law. She was a loved Aunty especially by her three nephews Jake, Tyson and Tawera. Nan was loved by her dear friends Pam, Revena and Velda. She was a Nan or whaea to many extended whānau and was there if you needed her. May she rest with her Dad and we farewell her this Matariki as she dances with the Pōhutukawa star.
The family have held a private cremation as requested by Nan and plan in due course to have road trip to allow her whānau to farewell her. If anyone would like to send condolences in lieu of flowers then please make a donation to the Cancer Society.
He toka tū Moana
As durable as a rock
Pounded by the surf