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In Memory of Paul Charles Drader
Posted by Liz Smith on 07/01/2012
The Ford V8 Family has been left mourning with the passing of Paul Charles Drader.
Paul passed suddenly on 30th December 2011. A funeral service celebrating Paul’s life was held at St Mary’s Anglican Church, Levin on Thursday 5th January 2012
Paul’s life has been well lived and his friendship and company has been enjoyed by so many. Many a fond memory was shared during the service by family and friends and many more in the supper room afterwards. The tales of Paul helping many old Fords return to the road and his passion for tinkering in the shed and sharing his knowledge gained during his time with Ford.
Paul served in the NZ Army, Royal New Zealand Electrical & Mechanical Engineers division. Paul was a member of several communities Volunteer Fire Brigades, was a Brother in the Masonic Lodge and enjoyed his Golf. Paul has been heavily involved in The Early Ford V8 Club of America throughout New Zealand, serving as President and Treasurer for a number of years.
The reading for the service was Ecclesiastes 5; verse 18-20 read by his daughter Denise. Paul’s wife Lyn read a eulogy, telling the story of Paul’s early life and their life together, their growing family, the places they have lived, visited and the adventures they have had. Several moving memories were shared by family members along with wonderful singing and poems from Paul’s grandchildren.
Our thoughts go to Paul’s family, his devoted wife Lyn, Denise & Allan, Raewyn & Mark, Jill & Alan, Kay & Brian and his eight grandchildren.
As the service concluded Hubcaps filled with Lavender and ANZAC Poppies were held by the grandchildren. As the Hearse drove away, followed by Paul’s 1939 Ford Fordor Deluxe Sedan, the church bells tolled nine times in memory of Paul’s 72 years.
Although Brian & I have only known Paul & Lyn a short time they have always made us welcome in their home and always been a great support to us in business. His death has come as a great shock to so many and it is evident what an impact this kind gentleman has had on so many lives. So as you get into your cars and enjoy a smooth fuel efficient carburetor or marvel at the gentleness of the journey, thanks to the reconditioned shocks, give thanks and remember this wonderful man and his God given talent. As Reverend David Pearson said during the service Paul’s Sanctuary was his shed and his car, so as you enter your sanctuary- be it church or shed take a moment to reflect, raise a glass and share the memories you have.
The family has invited friends to make your own tribute by email to flathead@clear.net.nz
In Loving Memory of Paul Charles Drader
28 July 1939 - 30 December 2011
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