I am very sorry to share with you that our former Chair and NZGS Life Member, Gavin Alexander, passed away on 19th November 2020 after a battle with cancer, surrounded by his family.
Gavin served on the NZGS management committee for a decade taking on the roles of Treasurer, Chair and more recently the ISSMGE Vice President for Australasia.
During Gavin’s tenure as Chair the NZGS was awarded the Outstanding Member Society of the International Society for Soil Mechanics and Geotechnical Engineering in recognition of the impact that the Society was having under his stewardship.
He also took a leading role in managing the Earthquake Geotechnical Engineering Practice Modules, guiding their delivery in a way that has resulted in a very significant improvement in performance across the geotechnical discipline.
Gavin’s calm, warm and collaborative approach made him a great leader who was always a pleasure to work with. I am particularly grateful for the advice and support he gave me, and no doubt also many of you, over the years.
Now is the time to remember Gavin, his achievements, and wonderful character. A celebration of Gavin’s life will be held on Thursday 26th November at the Coatesville Hall at 2pm.
In lieu of flowers donations to West Auckland Hospice or Brain Research New Zealand would be very much appreciated.
Because Gavin had so many friends around the world who will not be able to travel to the celebration, an online memorial book has been set up for you to share your memories of Gavin with his family and friends. You can access the memorial here.
For those who are unable to attend the memorial service on Thursday at 2pm for Gavin but still wish to be part of the celebration of his life, video streaming has been arranged: http://www.iwitness-streaming.com/gavinalexander.html
The password for the video stream is: Coatesville5678
Gavin was a consummate professional who sought to advance the profession and and industry. He was an example to all. He will be sorely missed by his colleagues and many friends.
For those who are unable to attend the memorial service on Thursday at 2pm for Gavin but still wish to be part of the celebration of his life, video streaming has been arranged.
There may also be an event held at the Beca office next week, details to be confirmed later.
The live streaming is via iWitness Streaming.
The link to the webpage is: http://www.iwitness-streaming.com/gavinalexander.html