Kaumatua ‘Uncle Joe’ passes away

Nelson kaumatua Joseph ‘‘Joe’’ Paul has died after a month of ill health.

Joe and Priscilla Paul’s daughter, Louisa Paul said her dad, who was 82, had ‘‘an amazing life’’.

He was often referred to as ‘‘Uncle Joe’’ and didn’t like being known as Joseph, she said.

‘‘His workmates called him Joe, in his community life, it was Uncle Joe.’’

She said her father would have listed his achievements and loves, as his family, faith, scooters and singing, in no particular order.

‘‘The one who topped it all was his sweetheart, Priscilla.’’

The couple celebrated their 62nd wedding anniversary last year.

Priscilla Paul is from the Nga¯ti Koata iwi and from Nelson.

Joe Paul was originally from Rotorua, his hapu being Nga¯ti Rangiwewehi. He lived the majority of his married life in Nel- son, Louisa said.

His involvement in the Nelson community stretched far and wide including the Nelson Male Voice Choir, kaumatua for the Nelson Marlborough Institute of Technology and Whakatu¯ marae, Nelson City Council kaumatua from 2003 to 2009 and original tutor for the Kia Nga¯wari kapa haka group started in 1974.

Nelson mayor Rachel Reese said the city council family was ‘‘privileged’’ to have him on board.

‘‘He is remembered for his mana and wisdom, generous heart and of course, his beautiful voice. He guided mayors and staff in tikanga and nurtured partnership between iwi and council.’’

Paul’s voice was an asset and one which he shared with the world.

Louisa said he travelled to Cardiff with the choir to sing where they received ‘‘a standing ovation. ‘‘He sang everywhere for everything and he was known for having such a beautiful voice.’’

Paul died on February 22.