The brother of a Western Bay councillor who passed away over the weekend is among those honoring his memory. Richard Crawford, a Maketū-Te Puke councillor, died after suffering a heart attack while cycling in Rotorua on Saturday. Crawford’s brother Chris fondly remembers their youth in Mount Maunganui, where they enjoyed surfing and were inseparable.
Crawford, the youngest of four brothers, was known for his competitiveness and his desire to never miss out on anything. He was also planning to go fishing with his brother on the day of his heart attack. His death has left a significant gap in the community, according to close friend and former Maketū Community Board chairman Shane Beech.
Crawford, who was a member of the Te Puke volunteer fire brigade for 13 years, was described as extremely caring and devoted to his community. Despite a humorous incident where his boat broke down at sea and he had to be towed in by the Coastguard, Crawford remained committed to his volunteer work.
Te Puke fire chief Dale Lindsay said Crawford’s death had deeply affected the brigade. Crawford joined the brigade in 2009 and quickly became a vital part of the team. Even after leaving in 2022, Crawford maintained close contact with the brigade and would often assist with medical calls.
Crawford was also a co-founder of The Daily Charitable Trust, a community organization that runs a social enterprise café and provides lunches to more than 2000 children on weekdays. Chrissi Robinson, general manager of the trust, described Crawford as a visionary and a people person who loved his community.
Western Bay mayor James Denyer expressed his deep sympathy to Crawford’s wife Julie, and his family, friends, and loved ones. He said Crawford’s death would be keenly felt by his colleagues at the council and in the wider Te Puke community. Crawford’s funeral will be held at The Orchard Church in Te Puke on Friday, April 5.
