Berryman to be buried in Perth
Jovial rugby-playing cult hero Norm Berryman will be buried in his adopted home of Perth, Western Australia.
Grieving family of the 42-yearold father of six have decided the Northland stalwart and three-time Super Rugby championshipwinner with the Crusaders will be laid to rest in the city he has called home since 2006.
Berryman, who played a test for the All Blacks in 1998 on the back of huge public support, died of a suspected heart attack on Monday, shortly after returning from Italy where he played in a tribute match for Jerry Collins on June 13.
The details are not yet confirmed but it is hoped Berryman’s tangi will be live-streamed so whanau, friends and fans can share in the farewell from New Zealand and around the world.
A post on the Tribute to Norman Rangi Berryman Facebook page announced: ‘‘Firstly we would like to thank everyone for all the heartfelt messages that we have received. The messages are supporting us in more ways than you will ever realise.
‘‘We are aware that people are very anxious to find out where our father’s final resting place will be. Our family can confirm the following: Our father Norman Rangi Berryman will have his funeral in Perth. He will also be laid to rest in Perth so he can be close to his family.’’
Fundraising for Berryman’s family is underway with the Wanneroo Districts Rugby Union club – where the former outside back coached for several seasons – holding a sausage sizzle and cake stall on Friday night to coincide with games for the under-11 and under-17 teams.
There are also plans for Berryman’s body to be taken to the club so relatives, friends and supporters can pay their respects.
Players from Wanneroo and Kalamunda – the first WA club Berryman represented – are to wear black armbands during their matches this weekend. The seniors will also play for the Norm Berryman Cup when they meet on August 1.
Berryman played third grade for Kalamunda’s premiershipwinning team in 2009 and maintained an association with the club when he started coaching his son Terrell at Wanneroo.
Former Counties and Cook Islands representative Koiatu Koiatu coached alongside Berryman at Wanneroo and paid an emotional tribute to one of New Zealand rugby’s cult figures.
‘‘Norm Berryman, see how much you’ve impacted your life on the many people around the world, who will always remember your laugh and your smile. Oh how that will be truly missed. It’s definitely not going to be the same without you and your voice,’’ he said.