Gisborne Boys’ High School and the rugby, cricket and surf lifesaving fraternities are mourning the death of former teacher Brian Cairns.
He was 81.
Mr Cairns was an old boy of Gisborne Boys’ High and taught at the school for many years, interrupting his career there with two years at Palmerston North Boys’ High.
During his years at Gisborne Boys’ High, he was head of physical education, coached the first 15 rugby team from 1977 to 1981, was senior master, assistant principal and deputy principal.
He was heavily involved in surf lifesaving (with the Waikanae club), cricket and rugby. He was a life member of Poverty Bay Cricket Association and Gisborne Surf Life Saving.
He was the father of four, “Poppa” of 10 grandchildren and husband to Anne.
“A family man, teacher of thousands, mentor of many, accomplished sportsman, administrator, community man – a good innings and a great life,” a family notice in the Gisborne Herald reads.
His funeral service is being held at Gisborne Boys’ High on Thursday from 1.30pm.
