Pathetic Facts

New Zealand music stars who deceased at age 77

Here are 19 famous musicians from New Zealand died at 77:

Denis Blundell

Denis Blundell (May 29, 1907 Wellington-September 24, 1984 Townsville) was a New Zealand lawyer.

He served as a member of Parliament from 1946 to 1949 and as the Attorney-General from 1949 to 1957. He played a key role in establishing the New Zealand Bill of Rights in 1961. Blundell was also a notable philanthropist and donated a significant portion of his wealth to charitable causes, especially those related to education and culture. In recognition of his contributions, he was made a knight in 1964 and was awarded the New Zealand 1990 Commemoration Medal posthumously.

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Harold Barrowclough

Harold Barrowclough (June 23, 1894 Masterton-March 4, 1972 Auckland) was a New Zealand lawyer.

In addition to his legal career, Barrowclough also had a successful military career. He served in both World War I and World War II, eventually rising to the rank of Lieutenant General. During World War II, he commanded the New Zealand Expeditionary Force and played a significant role in the Allied victory in the Italian Campaign. After the war, Barrowclough was appointed as the Chief Justice of Western Samoa and later became a judge on the Supreme Court of New Zealand. He also served as the President of the New Zealand Law Society. Barrowclough was widely respected for his legal expertise and his contributions to the New Zealand legal system.

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Dan Davin

Dan Davin (September 1, 1913 Invercargill-September 28, 1990) was a New Zealand writer.

He was known for his work in the genres of fiction, poetry, and literary criticism. Davin was a Rhodes Scholar and studied at Oxford University, where he was introduced to the likes of W.H. Auden and C.S. Lewis. Additionally, he served in World War II with the Divisional Cavalry in the Middle East and Italy. Davin was appointed an Officer of the Order of the British Empire and also received the New Zealand Order of Merit for his contributions to literature. He is remembered as a prolific writer who captured the essence of New Zealand culture and landscape in his acclaimed works, such as "Cliffs of Fall" and "The Gorse Blooms Pale."

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Robert Macalister

Robert Macalister (April 5, 1890-April 5, 1967) was a New Zealand lawyer.

He was born in Wellington and graduated from Victoria University College in 1912 with a Bachelor of Laws degree. After practicing law in Wellington for a few years, Macalister moved to London to further his studies at the University of London.

During World War I, he served in the British Army and was awarded the Military Cross for his bravery. After the war, he returned to New Zealand and became a prominent lawyer, specializing in land law and conveyancing.

Macalister was also active in public life, serving as a member of the Wellington City Council from 1930 to 1933 and as a member of parliament from 1935 to 1943. In 1943, he was appointed to the bench of the Supreme Court of New Zealand, where he served until his retirement in 1960.

Throughout his career, Macalister was respected for his intelligence, legal expertise, and fairness. He was also known for his dedication to the law and to public service.

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Terry McCombs

Terry McCombs (September 5, 1905-November 6, 1982) was a New Zealand teacher and headmaster.

He was born in Invercargill, New Zealand and obtained a Bachelor of Arts and Diploma of Education from the University of Otago. McCombs began his career as a teacher in 1928 at a rural school in Southland, New Zealand. He later became a headmaster and served in various schools across the country.

McCombs was known for his innovative approach to education and his advocacy for child-centered learning. He believed in creating a positive and stimulating learning environment that allowed students to explore and discover knowledge for themselves. His methods were based on a deep understanding of child psychology and the needs of individual learners.

In addition to his work as a teacher and headmaster, McCombs was an active member of the New Zealand Educational Institute and served as its president from 1958-1961. He was also involved in numerous educational research projects and authored several books on teaching and learning.

McCombs' contributions to education were recognized with numerous awards and honors, including a CBE in 1972 and an Honorary Doctorate from the University of Otago in 1980. He passed away in 1982, leaving behind a legacy of excellence in teaching and a commitment to educating future generations.

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Henry Suter

Henry Suter (March 9, 1841 Riesbach-July 30, 1918 Christchurch) was a New Zealand personality.

He was a naturalist, malacologist, and museum curator. Suter was born in Switzerland and later moved to New Zealand in 1863. He worked at the Canterbury Museum for many years, and his extensive research contributed to the field of mollusc taxonomy. He was particularly interested in the study of land snails, and his work on the subject was widely regarded as the most comprehensive of its time. In addition to his scientific work, Suter was also an accomplished musician and painter. He played the violin and produced many landscape paintings of New Zealand scenery. Suter Pass in the Southern Alps is named in his honor.

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Vernon Cracknell

Vernon Cracknell (May 30, 1912 Auckland-June 4, 1989 Kawakawa) was a New Zealand personality.

He was a journalist, broadcaster and television presenter, particularly known for his work in natural history and conservation. Cracknell was one of New Zealand's earliest and most tireless advocates for environmental conservation, and his many books, articles, and documentaries played a key role in raising awareness of the need for conservation efforts. He was also known for his travels, particularly to Antarctica, and his coverage of polar exploration made him one of New Zealand's most popular broadcasters. Despite his many accomplishments, Cracknell was a modest and unassuming person who remained dedicated to his work until the end of his life.

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Cliff Porter

Cliff Porter (May 5, 1899 Edinburgh-November 12, 1976 Wellington) was a New Zealand personality.

He was best known for his work in the entertainment industry, having been a vaudevillian and a comedian. Porter had a long and illustrious career, during which he performed on various stages throughout New Zealand and Australia, and also appeared on radio and television. He was known for his quick wit and his ability to keep audiences in stitches. In addition to his work in show business, Porter was also an accomplished visual artist, having studied at the Royal Academy of Arts in London. He was a well-respected member of the arts community and made valuable contributions to New Zealand's cultural landscape. After retiring from the entertainment industry, Porter lived out the rest of his days in Wellington, where he continued to paint and work on various artistic projects.

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Alan Christopher Deere

Alan Christopher Deere (December 12, 1917 Westport-September 21, 1995 New Zealand) was a New Zealand personality.

He was a decorated RAF fighter pilot during World War II and a flying ace. Deere served in the Battle of France and the Battle of Britain. After his military career, he returned to New Zealand where he worked as a farmer and eventually became a successful businessman. Deere was also heavily involved in veteran affairs and was appointed an Officer of the Order of the British Empire for his services in this area. He later published an autobiography titled "Nine Lives" and was honored with multiple awards for his contributions to aviation and his community.

Richard Mitchelson Campbell

Richard Mitchelson Campbell (August 28, 1897-November 17, 1974) was a New Zealand personality.

He was a composer, music conductor, and radio personality who made significant contributions to the New Zealand entertainment scene in the early 20th century. Campbell began his career as a pianist and organist at the age of 15 and later joined the New Zealand Broadcasting Corporation in 1927 as the conductor of its national orchestra. Throughout his career, he composed a number of popular songs and marching tunes, including the famous "Colonel Bogey March."

In addition to his musical achievements, Campbell was also a highly-regarded horticulturist, having cultivated over 200 different varieties of roses in his lifetime. He was known for his philanthropy and was a major supporter of a number of charitable causes, including the Royal New Zealand Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals.

Campbell was awarded the Order of the British Empire in 1953 for his contributions to music and horticulture in New Zealand. He passed away in 1974 at the age of 77.

Robert Alexander Falla

Robert Alexander Falla (July 21, 1901-February 23, 1979) was a New Zealand personality.

He was a renowned ornithologist, naturalist, and conservationist who dedicated his life to the study and preservation of New Zealand's native wildlife. Robert Alexander Falla is particularly known for his work with the endangered birds of New Zealand, including the iconic kiwi bird.

Falla studied Zoology at the University of Otago and later worked as curator at the Otago Museum. He then joined the Dominion Museum in Wellington where he became the chief ornithologist. Falla worked tirelessly to promote the conservation of New Zealand's native flora and fauna and was instrumental in establishing the Karori Wildlife Sanctuary in Wellington, New Zealand.

In recognition of his dedication and work towards the conservation of New Zealand's wildlife, the New Zealand government established the Robert Falla Memorial Fund in his honor. The fund supports research, training, and environmental projects designed to protect and preserve the country's natural heritage.

Tahu Hole

Tahu Hole (March 29, 1908-November 22, 1985) was a New Zealand journalist.

He was born in New Plymouth, Taranaki and attended New Plymouth Boys' High School. After finishing high school, Hole began his career as a journalist at the Taranaki Daily News. Later, he worked for the Hawke's Bay Herald Tribune and eventually became the editor of the Auckland Star in 1961.

During his career, Hole had a reputation for being a fearless reporter who was not afraid to ask tough questions and address controversial topics. He covered many significant events in New Zealand including the Tangiwai disaster, which claimed 151 lives in 1953. Hole's reporting of the tragedy was awarded the New Zealand Press Association's "Story of the Year" award.

Hole was also an author, publishing several books throughout his career, most notably "The Last Stoush: New Zealand's Big Strike of 1951," which chronicled the events of the country's largest industrial dispute.

After retiring from journalism in 1973, Hole was appointed to head the Royal Commission on Contraception, Sterilisation and Abortion, which made recommendations on the issues of birth control and abortion in New Zealand.

Tahu Hole passed away in Auckland in 1985 at the age of 77.

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Ray Hanna

Ray Hanna (August 28, 1928 Takapuna-December 1, 2005 Switzerland) was a New Zealand aerobatic pilot.

Hanna was widely regarded as one of the world's most skilled aerobatic pilots and was known for founding the renowned aerobatic display team, The Red Arrows. He was a veteran of the Royal New Zealand Air Force and flew over 15 different types of aircraft during his career. Hanna was also a successful entrepreneur, founding several aviation companies, including The Old Flying Machine Company, one of the world's leading restoration and maintenance facilities for vintage aircraft. He was inducted into the New Zealand Aviation Hall of Fame in 2004, a year before his untimely death.

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Jimmy James

Jimmy James (February 15, 1915 Athens-July 4, 1992) otherwise known as Dimitrios Skafidas was a New Zealand dancer and teacher.

He was born in Athens, Greece and migrated to New Zealand in the 1930s where he became a prominent figure in the dance industry. Jimmy James started his dancing career as a professional tap dancer which led him to start teaching dance in 1943. He later went on to open his own dance studio in Auckland known as the Jimmy James Dance Studio.

Jimmy James was known for his unique dance style which blended elements of tap, jazz, and ballroom dancing. He became a popular dance teacher and many New Zealand dancers, including future Dancing with the Stars judge, Brendan Cole, learned from him.

In addition to his dance career, Jimmy James also made several appearances on New Zealand television and starred in a number of films. He was honored with many awards during his career including an MBE (Member of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire) for his services to dance.

Jimmy James passed away on July 4, 1992 at the age of 77, but his legacy continues to live on through the many dancers he taught and inspired throughout his career.

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Edgar Wilson Benyon

Edgar Wilson Benyon (March 29, 1901 Auckland-September 14, 1978) was a New Zealand magician, juggler and entertainer.

He became interested in magic and juggling at a young age, starting to perform for audiences at the age of 15. Benyon went on to perform all over the world, including in Australia, the United States, and England. During World War II, he served in the Royal New Zealand Air Force as an entertainment officer, entertaining troops with his magic and juggling.

Benyon was known for his humorous approach to magic and juggling, often incorporating comedy into his performances. He was also an innovator in the world of magic, creating new tricks and illusions that amazed audiences.

In addition to his performing career, Benyon was also a writer, publishing several books on magic and juggling. He was also a founding member of the New Zealand Society of Magicians.

Today, Benyon is remembered as one of New Zealand's most beloved and innovative entertainers, and his legacy lives on through the many magicians and jugglers he inspired.

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George Clarke

George Clarke (January 27, 1798 Wymondham-July 29, 1875) was a New Zealand judge, politician, teacher, public servant and missionary.

Clarke was born in England and trained as a teacher before becoming a missionary in the Pacific region. After arriving in New Zealand in 1824, he quickly became involved in politics and served in the Bay of Islands as a judge and magistrate. Clarke later served as a member of the New Zealand Legislative Council and was highly respected for his commitment to justice and public service. In addition to his political and legal work, he was also a prolific writer and contributed greatly to the study of Maori language and culture. Clarke's legacy as both a leader and scholar is still celebrated in New Zealand today.

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Andreas Christian Iversen

Andreas Christian Iversen (February 25, 1834 Janderup-September 6, 1911) was a New Zealand personality.

Andreas Christian Iversen, also known as A.C. Iversen, was originally from Denmark and immigrated to New Zealand in 1863. He quickly became involved in various industries, including gold mining, farming, and newspaper publishing. In 1875, he established the highly successful newspaper "The Dannevirke Advocate" which went on to become one of the most popular newspapers in the region.

In addition to his work in the newspaper industry, Iversen also had a keen interest in politics. He was the Mayor of Dannevirke from 1881-1882 and was known for his efforts to improve the town's infrastructure and amenities. He was also involved in the early development of the New Zealand Labour Party and was a member of the Legislative Council from 1903-1911.

Iversen was highly regarded in the community and was known for his philanthropic efforts, including donating land for the establishment of a hospital in Dannevirke. He passed away in 1911 at the age of 77, leaving behind a legacy as a successful businessman, politician, and community leader.

George Williamson Hall

George Williamson Hall (September 7, 1818 Sculcoates-February 27, 1896 Hororata) was a New Zealand politician.

He was a member of the Canterbury Provincial Council from 1857 to 1868, serving as Speaker for a time, and then a member of the New Zealand Legislative Council from 1868 to 1871. Hall was known for being a strong advocate for education, and was instrumental in the establishment of the University of Canterbury. In addition to his political career, he was also a successful businessman, owning a number of sheep stations and trading ventures. After retiring from politics, Hall returned to his farming interests and continued to be an active member of the local community. He is remembered as one of the founding fathers of Canterbury and a champion for education and rural development in New Zealand.

John Solomon

John Solomon (November 12, 1903 Port Chalmers-February 23, 1981) was a New Zealand rower and athlete.

Solomon was renowned for his contribution to the sport of rowing, having competed and won medals in numerous international competitions, such as the Olympic Games and the Empire Games. He represented New Zealand in rowing at the 1932 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles, where he secured a gold medal in the men's coxed four. In addition to rowing, Solomon was also a talented athlete and represented New Zealand in the 110 metre hurdles at the 1930 British Empire Games in Hamilton, Canada. Upon retiring from sport, Solomon became a police officer and later worked as sports administrator, contributing to the development of sports in New Zealand.

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