Takapuna AFC members and supporters have farewelled club stalwart George Foster who has died in Auckland, aged 76.
“Fozzer”, as he was widely known, arrived in New Zealand from his native Liverpool in 1985 and with football-playing sons Paul and Mark, he quickly became a fixture at Tapakua.
His funeral drew a huge turnout at St Joseph’s Church as family and friends shared stories of his life.
In a tribute to Foster, the club said:
“A staunch Everton supporter, the well-read Fozzer could talk to you on most subjects, and talk he did.
“He was genuinely a kind and caring man, always interested in you and what you were up to.
“He soon became joined at the hip with another Scouser in Brian Giblin, and together they ran the Scousers FC team,
which played many Sunday friendlies and competed in the end-of-season Onehunga Mangere competition for many years, and featured many of Takapuna’s older players over the years.
“Despite some poor health in recent years, Foz continued to help run the Scousers Summer Sevens team. A few weeks ago, he suffered a downturn in health, and passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family.
“Sons Paul and Mark spoke eloquently and emotionally at the funeral, supported by Brian and long-time friend Mick Hackett, and it was indicative of the love and respect Foz was shown by how far some people had come to pay their respects, including friends from overseas.
“RIP, George; one of a kind!”
Takapuna AFC and Friends of Football extend their condolences to George’s wife Margaret, their sons Paul and Mark, and the extended Foster family.
George Foster
The following notice appeared in the NZ Herald:
FOSTER, George. Died peacefully on 28 February 2023 with his family by his side. A much-loved husband, father and grandfather. A friend to many, he will be sorely missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing him. A celebration of George’s life will be held at St Joseph’s Catholic Church, 10 Dominion Street, Takapuna, 1:30pm on Friday 3 March.
Obituaries
Through the publication of obituaries, Friends of Football tries to recognise the loss of those who have significantly contributed to our game.
