New Zealand music stars who deceased at age 50
Here are 3 famous musicians from New Zealand died at 50:
Ronald Hugh Morrieson
Ronald Hugh Morrieson (January 29, 1922 Hawera-December 26, 1972 Palmerston North) otherwise known as Ronald Morrieson was a New Zealand writer and novelist.
Ronald Morrieson is best known for his works of fiction set in the town of Hawera, his childhood home. His novels were characterized by their dark humor, depictions of small town life, and eccentric characters. Morrieson published four novels during his lifetime: "The Scarecrow" (1963), "Pallet on the Floor" (1969), "Predicament" (1975), and "Came a Hot Friday" (1971). His work has been described as a blend of humor, satire, and crime fiction.
Despite his literary success, Morrieson struggled with alcoholism and lived a reclusive life. He passed away from heart failure at the age of 50. In recent years, there has been a renewed interest in his work, with several of his books being adapted into films and plays. Today, Morrieson is considered one of New Zealand's most important literary figures.
"Predicament," one of Morrieson's most popular works, was adapted into a film in 2010 starring Jemaine Clement of "Flight of the Conchords" fame. The film was nominated for multiple awards at the New Zealand Film Awards. Morrieson's style has often been compared to that of fellow New Zealand author Janet Frame, whom he admired greatly. Morrieson's unique voice and knack for black comedy have made him a beloved figure in New Zealand literature, with his works still being read and celebrated today.
Despite his success in the literary world, Ronald Morrieson had a difficult personal life. He struggled with alcoholism for many years, which had a negative impact on his health and his relationships. Morrieson was known to be a reclusive figure, rarely leaving his home in Hawera. He also suffered from various health issues related to his alcoholism, which ultimately led to his untimely death at the relatively young age of 50.
Despite these challenges, Morrieson's impact on New Zealand literature has endured. His work is celebrated for its unique blend of humor, satire, and crime fiction, and his insightful and often dark depictions of small town life continue to resonate with readers today. His legacy has been further enhanced by the success of adaptations of his work in film and theater, keeping his unique voice alive and introducing it to new generations of readers and audiences.
In addition to his literary achievements, Ronald Morrieson also had a talent for art. He studied at the Wellington School of Design and worked as a commercial artist for many years. Some of his artwork was used for the covers of his books. Morrieson was also an avid collector of music, particularly jazz and blues, and his love for music is reflected in some of his writing. His interest in music and art, along with his unique storytelling style, contributed to the distinctive voice that defines his work. Despite his personal struggles, Ronald Morrieson's contributions to New Zealand literature continue to be celebrated and remembered today.
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Frederick Abbott
Frederick Abbott (November 25, 1901 Wellington-May 4, 1952 Banstead) was a New Zealand personality.
Abbott was a renowned cricketer who played as a right-arm medium-fast bowler for the New Zealand national team in 1932. He went on to become a successful businessman and entrepreneur, co-founding the well-known appliance brand, "Moffat". Abbott was also an accomplished pilot and flew for the Royal New Zealand Air Force during World War II, earning the prestigious Distinguished Flying Cross. In his later years, Abbott moved to England where he continued to manage his business interests and actively participated in community affairs. He was highly respected for his contributions to sports, aviation and industry, and was posthumously inducted into the New Zealand Sports Hall of Fame in 1990.
Abbott began his cricket career in his early twenties, representing the Wellington cricket team in domestic tournaments. He made his debut for the national team against England in 1932, where he took four wickets in the match. He played a total of five test matches for New Zealand, taking 10 wickets in his career.
Apart from cricket, Abbott was also interested in aviation and obtained his private pilot's license in the 1930s. During World War II, he served as a Flight Lieutenant in the Royal New Zealand Air Force, flying reconnaissance missions and earning several honors for his service.
After the war, Abbott focused on building his business empire. He co-founded Moffat, which became one of the biggest appliance brands in Australia and New Zealand. He also served as a member of the Wellington Chamber of Commerce and was actively involved in community affairs.
Abbott's contributions to sports, aviation, and industry were recognized by the New Zealand government, and he was posthumously honored with a New Zealand Order of Merit in 1996.
Abbott's success in business and entrepreneurship was due in part to his innovative ideas and his ability to identify emerging trends. With Moffat, he introduced a range of new products that revolutionized the home appliance industry in New Zealand, making them more accessible and affordable to the average consumer.
After moving to England in the mid-1940s, Abbott continued to expand his business interests, investing in a variety of enterprises, including a hotel chain and a publishing company. He also remained active in his community, serving as a member of the Banstead Parish Council and the Banstead Chamber of Commerce.
Despite his many achievements, Abbott remained humble and deeply committed to his family and friends. He was known for his sense of humor and his willingness to lend a helping hand to those in need. He passed away in 1952, leaving behind a legacy of innovation, leadership, and service to others.
Abbott's legacy continued even after his death, as his family carried on his business interests and philanthropic work. The Abbott Foundation, established by his daughter and son-in-law, supports various charitable causes in New Zealand and the United Kingdom, including education, health, and the arts. The foundation also provides scholarships for students pursuing studies in business and entrepreneurship, in honor of Abbott's own success in these fields.
Abbott's contributions to cricket were also remembered, as the Frederick Abbott Memorial Trophy was instituted in his honor. The trophy is awarded annually to the most outstanding cricketer in New Zealand's domestic competitions, and serves as a reminder of Abbott's talents as a player and his passion for the sport.
Overall, Frederick Abbott's life was characterized by his many achievements in diverse fields, including sports, aviation, business, and community service. His innovative ideas and leadership skills continue to inspire individuals and organizations to this day, and his legacy will undoubtedly endure for many years to come.
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Reginald Miles
Reginald Miles (December 10, 1892 Springston-October 20, 1943 Figueres) was a New Zealand personality.
He began his career as a journalist before taking up acting and comedy. He established himself in the entertainment industry in New Zealand before moving to London in the 1920s where he became a popular and successful performer on the stage and in film. Miles was well known for his slapstick comedy and his signature trick of pulling a tablecloth from under a set table without disturbing the dishes. He toured extensively throughout Europe and the United States, performing on the vaudeville circuit and in silent films. However, his career was cut short when he was diagnosed with tuberculosis, and he spent the last years of his life in a sanatorium in Spain where he passed away at the age of 50. Despite his relatively short career, Reginald Miles left a lasting legacy in the entertainment industry and is remembered as one of New Zealand's most beloved performers.
Miles was born to a working-class family in the small town of Springston in New Zealand. He began working as a journalist, but his natural talent for comedy soon led him to pursue a career in entertainment. He quickly became a popular performer in New Zealand and was invited to tour Europe in 1919. This tour was a huge success and led to him moving to London in the early 1920s.
In London, Miles quickly established himself as a successful comedian, appearing in popular stage shows and silent films. He was best known for his physical comedy, and his signature trick of pulling a tablecloth from under a set table without disturbing the dishes became famous around the world. He also developed a reputation for his charming and affable personality, which made him a favorite among audiences.
Despite his success, Miles was plagued by health issues throughout his career. He suffered from frequent bouts of pneumonia and was diagnosed with tuberculosis in the late 1930s. He continued to perform, but his illness took a toll on his health and eventually forced him to retire from the stage.
Miles spent his final years in a sanatorium in Figueres, Spain where he passed away in 1943 at the age of 50. He was remembered fondly by his fans and fellow performers, and his legacy continues to be celebrated in New Zealand and around the world.
In addition to his comedy and acting career, Reginald Miles was also a talented musician. He played the piano and accordion, and often incorporated music into his performances. He was known for his comedic musical numbers and catchy tunes. Miles also wrote and composed several songs, including "The Little Wooden Soldier" and "Swapping Horses".
Miles was married twice during his life, first to New Zealand actress and singer Dorothy Melvin, and later to fellow performer Olga Emerald. He had two children, both of whom followed in their father's footsteps and pursued careers in entertainment.
After his death, a memorial fund was established in New Zealand in Miles' honor, and a statue of him was erected in his hometown of Springston. His legacy as a pioneer of New Zealand entertainment and a beloved performer continues to be celebrated to this day.
In addition to his contributions to the entertainment industry, Reginald Miles was also a strong advocate for social justice and equality. He was a member of the International Workers of the World, a union that fought for workers' rights and fair treatment. Miles often incorporated political commentary into his performances and used his platform to raise awareness of important social issues.
Miles was also a supporter of the women's suffrage movement and believed in the importance of giving women equal rights and opportunities. He frequently performed at women's rights rallies and was a vocal advocate for women's empowerment.
Despite his short life and career, Reginald Miles made a lasting impact on both the entertainment industry and society as a whole. His dedication to comedy, music, and social justice continue to inspire generations of performers and activists.
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