Warwick DARCEY Obituary

I'm sorry to learn of Dr. Darcey's passing.

I knew Dr. Darcey for nearly 12 years. As an undergraduate at VUW during the eighties, I attended physics classes he taught. With most undergraduates, lecturers are on a pedestal and their words taken very seriously. One year I had an economics class immediately before Dr. Darcey's class. They were at opposite ends of campus, so I would run to make sure I was at the lecture before he commenced and might carry through his promise to lock the door to the room --- not that he ever did. His apparently stern teaching demeanour was enough to ensure that my cohort kept in line and paid attention to his class! His lectures were crisp, insightful, and easy to understand: demonstrating his deep knowledge of the field and ability to teach.

Working later with him I learnt more about his wry, succinct sense of humour as well as his kindness. It was his help, during his time as HoD Physics, which opened doors for my study and later career. For example, he helped me take up a masters course in physics despite having studied Honours instead in geophysics and then later, when I suddenly wanted to return from Australia, supported both my application for PhD study in the department but also arranged financial support. I don't know if I ever thanked Warwick personally for his help. If so, that is very remiss of me, as without his kind help I would have walked a very different path. My condolences to his family and friends.

A good friend and great colleague. My condolences to family and friends.

A wonderful man who I will always remember as a funny, supportive,kind and helpful person. I was part of a few overseas tours that Warwick was a part of and what fun we had. I will remember him for his laugh, his sparkly eyes and sense of humor. Condolences to all his family, he was a wonderful man.

Lots of lovely memories of Warrick at NZ Gymnastics Nationals, conferences, for the last 35 odd years .RIP. Dear friend.

Sincere condolences on behalf of the School of Chemical and Physical Sciences at Te Herenga Waka/Victoria University of Wellington. I had the pleasure of being taught by Warwick as an undergraduate student, and when I joined the School as a lecturer I initially shared an office with him. He was incredibly welcoming, and I really enjoyed his sense of humour. A story that always comes to mind for me was when he arrived at work while it was raining. To avoid wetting the carpet he placed his umbrella in the rubbish bin. The cleaners took it away. His reaction was somewhere between mild consternation and amusement, conveyed with his characteristic look and just a few words.

My thoughts and prayers to Yvonne, Mike, and Robyn. I have great childhood memories of Warwick and family.

Nicholas Holland

My deepest sympathies to Mike and all the family. Fond memories of Dr. Darcey. I will remember His dedication and support to me and NZG. An extremely intelligent, kind with a great sense of humour. RIP