1914 days ago

Ron Francis tribute

Reporter Community News

A tribute to the late Ron Francis from his son. Richard Francis.

Ron Francis 1931-2020

Ron Francis was a citizen of Lower Hutt for 60 years and was one of the most engaged and positive people in our community, mixing a strong sense of service and unshakeable faith with big ideas and a focus on “getting stuff done”.
Having survived multiple heart attacks, Ron passed away on October 25, at Hutt Hospital, aged 89.

Ron was the inspiration and administrative heft behind multiple Shapeshifter International Festival of the Arts fundraising events (raising over $300,000 for local Hutt charities) and a powerhouse for the Agape Budgeting Service (supporting over 3,000 local families to budget and access low interest loans for 30+ years), which he served for 13 years. In recent years Ron was a trustee and treasurer of the Hutt Valley Heart Trust for 15 years (raising funds in support of the Coronary Care Unit team and facilities at Hutt Hospital, as well as for cardiac event survivors in the Hutt).

His community efforts were recognised by the Mayor with a Civic Contribution Award in 2017. As a Paul Harris Fellow of the Rotary Club of Hutt, and foundation and life member of the Waterloo Probus Club, Ron’s many decades of service were also recognised by his peers.

Ron was an active member of the Lower Hutt Baptist Church for 60 years, which he attended with his wife Noeline.

Ron’s career encompassed 50 years as a Chartered Accountant that saw him found his own firm, Partner at a large firm and then act for many years as General Manager at Aroha Care Centre and Hospital, where he was presented with a Business Innovation Award by then Prime Minister, Jim Bolger.

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One proposed solution? Small levies on industries that profit from financial hardship — like banks, casinos, and similar companies.

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Should the government ask these industries to contribute?

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Should the government levy industries that contribute to financial hardship?
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    59.3% Complete
  • 25.3% No, individuals should take responsibility
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755 votes
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6 days ago

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I'm so sick of seeing stray dogs no collars,under fed, just like the one I saw running past me while I was waiting for the bus, poor fella Before u get a dog, do your research owning a dog is a big responsibility
They depend on us
Is your house fenced
Does your landlord know u have a pet? Don't forget vet bills
And a comfortable place to sleep hopefully inside..
Don't forget good nutritious food,and daily walks,just remember check foot path on hot days by placing your hand or bare foot on it to see if too hot for your doggies paws, best early in the morning or late in afternoon when temperature is cooler..OK im not saying I'm the best owner my girl was left home alone while I was at work even though I took her for long walks in the morning..sensitive subject If u have to put your precious fur baby to rest because of horrible uncurable
Illness have the vet come to your home don't do it at a vet clinic that is the place stresses them out..
My girl had cancer
And the vet wanted to put to sleep in the clinic he made up every excuse, but I rang around and found wonderful vet in waterloo, they were so kind and we agreed on a day..
Cost $370..
My girl was not stressed at all she was chilled out on her couch watching TV, she was clueless
She thought vet were there to visit Lol it was quick my girl fell asleep went back to Our creator in heaven
So guys please do your research before u get a dog😁