Support for sons of victim
AUCKLAND: The teenage boys of a Serbian man slain on the job have been assured they will never be alone.
Goran Milosavljevic died after allegedly being attacked while working as a security guard outside Countdown Papakura last week.
He was farewelled yesterday morning by family, friends and colleagues in a moving Serbian religious ceremony in Mangere.
Mr Milosavljevic moved to New Zealand in 2009, and worked hard so he could support his family.
He had worked for Countdown Papakura for eight months, and previously for Allied Security.
His death marked a string of tragedies for the family, including the death of his parents in a car accident in September last year.
His two sons Stefan (15) and Alex (19) had recently joined their father in New Zealand and were pallbearers during the ceremony.
Alex said in bringing them to New Zealand, their father had achieved wanted.
‘‘We are grateful and honoured by our father.
‘‘We know you will be happy and proud of us. We love you.’’
Allied Security regional manager Jason Lynch said Mr Milosavljevic always spoke about his boys.
‘‘He moved here for a better life for his family. He always spoke about his boys, would tell everybody about his hopes and dreams for them.
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Countdown managing director Dave Chambers said Mr Milosavljevic was well loved and respected.
He said Countdown would be there to support Mr Milosavljevic’s sons’ future endeavours.
Mr Milosavljevic was only months away from being eligible to gain New Zealand citizenship.
Consulate of the Republic of Serbia honorary consul Stevan Berber said the boys would be well supported.
‘‘We will do our best to help his sons continue their life in the right directions.
‘‘I see clearly we have excellent support from the council, and people in Manurewa.’’
A 17yearold youth is in custody charged with manslaughter and has interim name suppression.
He is yet to enter a plea and the case will be transferred to the High Court at Auckland later in the month. — NZME