The Rev George Morrison Yule, one of the Presbyterian Church’s oldest ministers, died at Sarah Selwyn Hospital, Point Chevalier in Auckland, on January 3. He was 96.

Morris, who was born in Sydenham, Christchurch, had long ministries in Presbyterian churches in Ranfurly, Central Otago, Edendale, Southland, Pon-sonby and Mt Eden, before retiring in Westmere, Auckland, his and his wife Marion’s home for 28 years.

Earlier, while at Auckland University College, he had served as a Presbyterian student home missionary — at St Heliers-Kohimaramara and Henderson. In retirement he also served churches in Waipu, St Heliers, and New Lynn, during ministerial vacancies.

Morris was a notable hockey player who won an Auckland University blue and represented Otago and Southland in provincial competition. He famously coached the Maniototo women’s hockey team that went on to win the K Cup, the New Zealand women’s championship, in the 1950s and 60s.

He is also remembered for his work as a foundation member of the Westminster Fellowship which contributed to the growth of the evangelical movement in the Presbyterian Church. His support for global mission included 29 years on the board of the Sudan Interior Mission, and 17 years as chairman of the Africa Inland Mission.

Morris leaves his wife, eight children, 25 grandchildren, and 27 great-grandchildren, who tell stories of unforgettable holidays in places as diverse as Pounawea in the Catlins, Uretiti in Bream Bay, and Whananaki in Northland, as well as at the family’s classic Kiwi bach at Pinewoods Motor Park, Redbeach.

Rob Yule remembers his father as a patient and modest man, who showed a remarkable capacity to be non-judgmental, to move with the times, and to allow for other theological viewpoints and practice. “He was always respectful of others, slow to anger, wise and thoughtful in counsel. He chose his words carefully, and had a gentle humour. He remained a gentleman to the last.”