One of Waitemata FC’s earliest members, Brian Smith, has died in Auckland, aged 85.
The popular UK-born Smith become one of the club’s driving forces soon after it was formed in 1959 and his volunteer efforts to build the club earned him a Life Membership.
In a tribute to Smith on their Facebook page, the Waitemata club acknowledged his contribution to the club saying: “The work done in early years by Brian Smith and his family is what the foundation of the club has been built on.”
The club said in recent years, he had been “an important member of the Fluro supporters crew, and he will be deeply missed around the clubrooms.”
In true Smith style, his family invited guests to his funeral service to wear their football club colours of choice. He was an Arsenal fan.
Brian Alexander Smith (1936 — 2022)
Death notice from the NZ Herald
SMITH, Brian Alexander. Born September 24, 1936. Passed away peacefully surrounded by family on Sunday May 1, 2022, aged 85. Cherished Husband and bestfriend of Barbara. Much loved Dad and Dad-in-law of Martin and Karen, Susan and Brett, Andrew and Mandy. Treasured Grandad of Danielle, Thomas, Stephen, Matthew, Samuel, Kate, Jacob, Monica, Abby, and Great Grandad of Matilda. A service for Brian will be held at Morrisons in the Main Chapel Monday the 9th of May at 3:00pm. As the avid Arsenal fan that Brian was, please feel free to come along wearing your own club colours.
Obituaries
Through the publication of obituaries, Friends of Football tries to recognise the loss of those who have significantly contributed to our game.
