Reverend Robert Ayton Foster

06 Jul 1924 - 16 Aug 2020

Reverend Robert Ayton Foster

06 Jul 1924 - 16 Aug 2020

Passed away peacefully on August 16, 2020

Loved wife of Jenny.

Beloved father and father-in-law of Mary and Peter Holt, Bill and Lizzie, and Vivienne and Shane Van der Sluis.

Much loved and respected grandfather of Jane, Helen and Grace.

Thank you to all those who have been involved in Bob’s care, most recently the staff at Princess Alexandra Hospital.

The passage of time and the uncertainty of the COVID 19 restrictions, have persuaded the family not to proceed with the public commemoration service.

Conversations, letters, cards, visits and flowers have served to honour Bob’s life, and we Thank you most sincerely

Mr Foster taught me at Waipawa District High School in the 1950's. He installed so many good values in me and gave me a lifetime love of Gilbert and Sullivan. I am so sorry for your loss, he was a wonderful man. I have never forgotten him.

Lexie Cook ( 13 Sep 2020 )

My sincere condolences to the family - the news of Bob's passing brought back so many memories of my school days at Central Hawke's Bay College. Bob was the instigator of my love for all the Gilbert & Sullivan Operas, and my ability to speak passable French. Always a gentleman, and as a Minister always interested in people and with a compassionate outlook for those in need. Truly one of life's good people.
Kharyl [Carole] Scott Brisbane Australia

Kharyl Scott ( 21 Aug 2020 )

I was at school with Bob Foster. He was older than me.
In later life, as Principal of a college in Waipawa, and later Principal of Central Hawke's Bay College, Bob promoted cricket and several students became recognised players.
For some years there were several teams and keen competition.
Bob and Peter's Dad of course was Principal of Napier Boys' High School.
He was a remarkably competent Classical Pianist and frequently gave those students who had some understanding of music much pleasure. I know he gave at least one recital to an audience in the Napier Art Gallery Museum.
At school, I was more of an age with Bob's younger brother Peter.

Ray Turnbull ( 19 Aug 2020 )

Dear Mary and Peter . We are so sorry to hear of the sad loss of your beloved Dad and Grandad to Jane and Helen. Please accept our deepest sympathy.
“To live in the hearts of those we love is not to die”
Love to you all, Ray & Ellen Daubney????

Ray and Ellen Daubney ( 19 Aug 2020 )

Dear Foster Family,
Many many fond memories of MR FOSTER, Bob. as a friend of The Family, Tavistock Road College House, Bill a Great Friend of Grenvillies, we can't forget Our College Principal what feels like many many years ago ????...
Thinking of you all..
Hi Bill????
The Ellisons
7 Albert Crescent Waipukurau
Pauline Teresa Rowan Grenville n Nicola

Pauline Signal ( 18 Aug 2020 )