Bay of Plenty Times

Beloved dad ‘continues to give’ after tragic death

Organs donated to help other Kiwis

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Christchur­ch man Mike Worley was known for his big personalit­y, his passion for the outdoors and his love for people.

That love for others has continued even after his death, with his organs — including his heart — being donated to help save the lives of other Kiwis.

The 55-year-old died in hospital earlier this month after a tragic accident while at a barbecue with friends and family.

Worley’s brother, Anton Worley, told Stuff that Mike had been in the kitchen eating some leftover steak when a piece of meat became lodged in his throat.

“He sort of said: ‘I’m choking’. And at that stage there were two other good mates there. Straight away, we started first aid on him,” Anton said.

They carried out CPR while waiting for the ambulance, which arrived a few minutes later.

Despite the group managing to dislodge the piece of food, Mike Worley never regained consciousn­ess. He died in hospital four days later.

At his funeral last week, friends and family came together to remember a person who loved sports and the outdoors and liked to keep up a healthy lifestyle.

He was also a dedicated and very active dad to his two daughters, Charlotte and Lucy, and a loving partner to Suz, who revealed to mourners — gathered in person and watching on an online livestream — that Mike had been an organ donor.

Several of his organs, including what she described as his “precious heart” have been donated and will go on to help a number of people, including children, in New Zealand.

“Even in passing, he continues to give,” his partner said.

Worley was widely known for his support of his daughters and

their curricular activities as they grew up.

Olympia Gymnastic Sports honoured a man they said was a valued volunteer for the club for many years.

Charlotte and Lucy talked of an adventurou­s dad who was always taking them on outdoor trips and, in the process, teaching them perseveran­ce.

“Dad was so generous and quick to think of others,” Charlotte said.

“We’ll miss him giving the best bear hugs after a rough day, getting every answer wrong on The Chase . . . and ringing him whenever a red warning light appears on the dash of my car.”

Lucy said a special karakia at her dad’s service. She called him her anchor and soulmate — the only person who could keep her in line.

“I will cherish every single memory of you over the years and all the amazing things that we have done as a family. I will always miss your amazing smile, laugh and silly dad jokes.”

Anton Worley acknowledg­ed he was still in “unbelievab­le shock” that his brother had died so early, given his healthy lifestyle.

“Truly the very best big brother and best friend. Love you forever, bro.”

 ?? PHOTO / FACEBOOK ?? Mike Worley, also known as Lenny, with his daughters Lucy (left) and Charlotte.
PHOTO / FACEBOOK Mike Worley, also known as Lenny, with his daughters Lucy (left) and Charlotte.

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