‘Compassionate rascal’ farewelled
As 10 family members stood in their bubbles, unable to hug or speak without the impediment of a face mask, hundreds of people sat in front of screens to farewell Theo Edwards.
The mourners spanned the globe as Covid-19 level 3 restrictions tamed what would have been a large funeral for the young man described by his aunt as a ‘‘rascal’’ full of ‘‘fun and joy’’.
Edwards, 21, died from meningitis the day after he went to bed with a headache.
He got a Covid-19 test on August 23 after feeling achy, then went home to bed. His flatmates called an ambulance when they could not wake him about 7pm.
Edwards was declared braindead the next day.
Yesterday, close relatives gathered at Lamb and Hayward to celebrate the popular Canterbury University student’s life.
Aunt Louise Edwards spoke on the family’s behalf, sharing his close relationship with his grandad, Keith Edwards.
He was proud his grandson was in his last year of a forestry degree and cried in joy when he was told the university had decided to award his degree posthumously next year.
Theo Edwards loved tramping and nature, was fit and healthy, and ran a socially distanced marathon the weekend before his death.
He had been excited by the prospects of a potential forestry job in Gisborne when he finished university.
‘‘This is going to be a big part of how we all remember him,’’ his aunt said.
‘‘What we loved most about Theo was his easy smile, his willingness to help with anything and his engaging personality.’’
One of three siblings, Edwards was interested in everything from English football to a growing Sharesies portfolio, craft beer, fishing and skiing.
The family would mourn his loss, ‘‘we will also celebrate him and the joy he brought’’.
Bryce Edwards remembered his nephew as a ‘‘compassionate rascal’’ who exuded fun and was unique.
Mum Juleen Saxton said her eldest son was an amazing man.
‘‘He had so many amazing relationships, and he was loved so much, and he loved a lot . . . he really lived life to the
full.’’
Gareth Edwards said his son was ‘‘the friendliest guy’’.
Speaking after the service, Louise Edwards said her nephew’s funeral had proved to be ‘‘doubly difficult’’ due to level 3 restrictions.
Not being able to have physical contact with other family members or have a large gathering after the funeral had been ‘‘horrible’’.
It was also tough for his friends, who had to grieve in isolation, she said. The family hoped to hold a memorial service once Christchurch was no longer under Covid-19 restrictions.
In the meantime, family and friends had Indian takeaways last night – allowed under level 3 restrictions – to celebrate Theo Edwards’ favourite food.