Well-known local businessman and broadcaster Humphrey Beale has died, aged 90.
Mr Beale’s family said in a death notice he passed away peacefully on January 13.
Daughter Helen Beale described her father as “the most amazing man I have ever known”.
“He had a wicked humour, an incredible memory, unlimited knowledge of New Zealand’s history, and a particular interest and knowledge of the old ferries, buses (Edwards Motors), people, the Hauraki Gulf and its characters, real estate and later his travels around the world, and his love for Russia and his Russian friends,” she told the Times.
“Humphrey was a very successful business man, a loving family man, and a loyal friend to many. He was a true adventurer and a very loved character and legend of the Hauraki Gulf.
“I am honoured to have had him as my father.”
A Herald notice said: “Late of NZ Herald, Edwards Motors, Beale Real Estate, Radio Pacific, Alcyone and much more.”
Alcyone was his much-loved classic wooden boat. The 38-foot launch, waitematewoodys.com reports, was purchased by Mr Beale in the mid-to-late 1960s. He owned it at least until the late 1980s or early 1990s.
“Beale was a real estate agent who used her (Alcyone) extensively for taking clients to Rakino, Waiheke and Great Barrier,” the site says.
His real estate business formerly occupied the prominent spot near St Kentigern College
marked by a distinctive block building which has housed various enterprises since.
In a Facebook post Dennis Bloodnok wrote: “Sad to see the death at age 90 of Humphrey Beale, one of the hosts of “Open Country”, a nostalgia programme on Radio Pacific in the Fountain Court days.
“Some will remember him for that or his Beale Real Estate place in Pakuranga. He was an enthusiastic broadcaster, and when a number of us were “replaced” (including him) by a PD doing what PDs do, he really missed the interaction with his many enthusiastic callers and fans. Another old broadcaster gone off air…May he rest in peace, and rise in glory.”
Allan Dick also paid tribute on Facebook.
“Sorry to hear of the passing of Humphrey Beale, raconteur and good bastard. His knowledge was deep,” he said.
“Last time I saw Humphrey was about seven years ago as I was checking into a grand old pub in Geraldine as he was too. He was leading a bus tour and probably chatting up every single lady. Go well Humphrey.”
Mr Beale, the only child of Clarence and Myra Beale, is the father and father in law of Terry, Tina and Eric, Steve, Helen and Ian, Michael and Susana, grandfather of Rhonda, Chrissie, Kahley, Anna, Marie, Matthew, Leon, Kayla and Hannah and great grandfather of 16 children.
