In Loving Memory of Angela Gilbert

On May 31st, a fatal car accident on SH25 in Tairua took the life of a beautiful soul, Angela Gilbert. Her presence radiated love, light and laughter for 40 years, and the loss of her life has been deeply felt in her town and around the world by everyone who was blessed to know her. She left behind her three precious sons - Soli (12), Will (10), and Sammy (8) and her adoring husband, Andy. Andy was in the car with Ange on that tragic day. He was initially trapped and suffered multiple injuries. There have been additional expenses and loss of work due to these injuries. The goal of this campaign is to rally around in support of the Gilbert family during this difficult time. Ange gave so much of her loving self into each and every relationship in her amazing life. Now it is our turn to give back to her family and show just how much she meant to all of us. We have set up this page as a way for all of us to do something that will help alleviate some of the financial stress.

Ange loved well and was so well loved. A true testament to her life "well lived" was the one thousand plus people in attendance at her funeral. So many wonderful words and memories have been shared about Ange, but I think Tairua School principal Brendan Finn perfectly communicated the heart of the community for Ange and the beautiful life she lived out. “These are very tough times for us all and there are no words I can share to ease the personal and collective pain that everyone is experiencing. Your heartache is a measure of the love you have for Angela and, if the sombre and reserved atmosphere in and around our town is anything to go by, it is clear to see that Ange was deeply loved and respected, and her passing will leave a significant void in so many people’s lives. Community projects, Playcentre, camps, trips, festival committees, assemblies, everything! Ange has been involved in every aspect of her children’s education. Unable to say no to anything, Ange was often our go-to parent for assistance and perspective on all matters. She will always be remembered for her peaceful manner, radiating smile, her ability to bring the best out in others and as a woman who loved her family deeply. She leaves more than a little bit of herself with us all and I encourage everyone that knew her to hold tight to those memories and feelings and take comfort from them during this time."

Our hearts are truly with the Gilbert family. All the love, support and prayers that have already been poured out have meant the world to them. And they are deeply grateful. Thank you for your thoughtfulness and any financial contributions you are able to make.

*** international friends, please note, donations are registered in New Zealand dollars so you may want to check conversion rates to ensure the Gilberts receive the amount you want to give (i.e. - when you give $100 on the site, it's $100 NZD, so you're giving approximately $65 USD).

"Some people come into our lives, leave footprints on our hearts, and we are never the same."