Charles Connolly
 

For those who have worked in the middle east and New Zealand it is with deep regret that I am posting this.......Charles Connolly, Team Leader, Duty Manager ATC, passed away last night (23rd July).

He fought hard against cancer over the last few years but finally lost the battle.

For family reasons the funeral will be held today at 1700 at John Rhinds, 13 - 19 London street, Christchurch, New Zealand.

The Rottweiler

Hi Rotty

I got the news this morning in a nice email from Sandy.

While it was inevitable that it would finally get him Charles was a fighter to the end. I caught up with him a month or two back and he was still full of life and the promise of a new drug regime still offered some hope.

Like many I am honoured to say that he was a friend and mentor. He was highly respected by all who came across him as he had integrity in bucket loads and was a people person rather than a number cruncher. Airways NZ (and the world in general) will be a poorer place without him!

Over and out Charles....

Pete

Adieu Charles
 

Rotty,
Thanks for passing on the news, sad though it is. I shall remember Charles as a chap worthy of my very great respect, and I'm pleased to have known and worked with him. Charles was a rare character: you would have to go a long way to find someone of his integrity and good humour.

My sincere condolences to the family.

Sean

Farewell to a true legend, an amazing man. The world will indeed be a poorer place without him. He has left his mark on many, I shall miss him.

RIP old friend
 

Rotty,

Heard about it from Oz today, very sad news to lose such an inspirational leader and overall good bloke.

We had many a long talk about working overseas and his advice and personal experiences in the ME brought me to where I am today.

RIP Charles, it was a privilege knowing you and working next to you.

Our condolences to Sandy and the boys.

NK

Big funeral last night.Standing room only. A few tears listening to Ryan, Donovan, Paj, Irene (on behalf of Sandi) various brothers and sisters. A proud Kiwi but also proud of his African heritage. Hard to believe he isn't going to stroll in to Andy Herd respendant in colourful tie (always tasteful), immaculate as usual. he bounced back so often just thought he would again.
Sad
Ozman

Very sad to hear this news, having had the privilege to work with Charles for a few years in NZ, I want to add my condolences to his family.

Anyone that knew him knows that there aren't enough words to convey what a special man this was. I don't think I've ever met someone as inspiring - every time we spoke about how he was doing, I came away thinking 'Wow'. To endure as much as he did, and remain yet so cheerful and positive, is absolutely amazing.

My most recent trip back 'home' was in February and I was delighted to run into Charles once again - knowing now that that was the last time is very sad.

Farewell big man .. . RIP Charles, and thanks for all your help, encouragement and most importantly all those laughs ...

Mark.

RIP Charlie Charlie
 

It is truely a sad day that Airways has lost one of it's iconic TEAM Leaders.

It was a privilege to have worked and socialised with Charles over the last 20 or so years. He will be greatly missed.

The thoughts of the team in Ireland are with Sandy, Ryan, Donavan and workmates back home.

A Guinness or two will be drunk in his honour.

Jaws