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For those that were unable to attend, I thought I would share a few impressions from the funeral of Nick Williams.
Today, Wednesday, 5th September 2007 we attended the funeral of Nick Williams, (1960-2007) at Pinnaroo Chapel, Bridgman Downs, Brisbane. Although there was a blustery wind that whipped up the fallen leaves around our feet, the Sun magically peeped out from behind the banks of grey clouds as Nick was finally laid to rest. It was a quiet but beautiful moment as his Wife, Mother, Brother, family, relatives, friends and colleagues gathered to remember one of their favourite sons.
Earlier, we had all gathered in the Chapel at 1:00pm. With more than 120 seated and standing inside, another 50 or so crowding the entrance, the Funeral Celebrant conducted a beautiful service and celebration dedicated to the life of our dear friend Nick. David Durham (BAS President) spoke from his heart, choking back tears as he took us on a journey describing their astronomical exploits, alongside Nick’s character, qualities and achievements. Next, one of Nick’s musical friends shared with us a similar story; this time describing Nick’s musical interests, at times providing much needed humour gleaned from some of the hilarious events of their shared past.
In the Chapel, we sat next to a friend of Nick’s from one of the computer clubs where he was also a very active member. He commented how they would all miss him, so terribly much. Astronomy, computing, music and electronics are all time consuming past times – how on earth did Nick manage not only to fit these into his life, but also excel in each of these pursuits?
A beautiful poem, penned by his Wife, Caroline, was read out and there wasn’t a dry eye in the Chapel. I truly hope that Caroline is able to find some comfort in the wonderful words of Nick’s closest friends; all who described Nick as being the happiest they had ever seen him, from the time he and Caroline met and were eventually wed in June this year.
Nick’s brother, Gary spoke of growing up with Nick and how lucky he had been to have had such a wonderful big brother to clear a path through life for him.
Another of Nick’s musical friends then spoke and it was quite astonishing how he too used the very same words used by others to describe Nick. A gentleman and a gentle man. Kind, helpful, humble, talented, sensitive, intelligent, passionate, loving and considerate, are but a few of the words that echoed throughout the celebration of Nick’s life on this day.
A haunting melody from Dusty Springfield filled the Chapel, as we remembered Nick. A bright and cheery photo of Nick adorned his coffin, made brighter and more cheerful by the beautiful flowers which adorned it. A beautiful piece of music sung and composed by one of Nick’s musical friends (Paul O’Grady) was played, helping ease our sorrows, as the chorus of “Carry me home on the wings of the Angels” echoed around the walls of the Chapel, filled by everyone’s love for Nick.
David Durham (BAS President), Tony Surma-Hawes (IIS) and some musical friends then carried the coffin to the waiting hearse, which then lead us slowly to Nick’s place of internment. It was then that the Sun broke all the way through, as if to let us know that it was okay to smile inside, to celebrate with joy, the life and times of Nick, even whilst feeling the sadness of his premature passing.
We then met in the reception of the Chapel for refreshments where we had the opportunity to speak with Caroline and Nick’s friends. We were deeply touched by Caroline’s love, strength, dignity and composure as we talked of Nick, sharing and swapping fond memories and funny stories. It was also lovely to catch up with Anne-Louise and Tony, Brendan, Jeanette, Ron and others from IIS, as well as members from all the SE Qld Astronomy Clubs, to remember this great man.
Nick, you were that rare and special person indeed, touching the lives of so many with your goodness, humanity and humility. I am fortunate to have met you, known you and shared time with you.
God bless you and may you rest in peace.
Dennis & Narelle
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