STRONG, Brian David:
Born 13 July 1939 in Whangarei. Passed peacefully on 23rd October, 2024 in Kew Hospital, Invercargill. Dearly loved husband of the late Irene (née Rose) and much-loved father and father-in-law of Dianne and Chas Robinson; loved brother of Heather, Fred, and Robyn; loved second Dad and uncle of Wendy; and a much-loved uncle, great uncle, family member and friend to many. Brian was an exceptionally gifted and talented human being who was legendary for his mischievous and quirky sense of humour. In his later years, Brian was in the loving care of Longwood Home, Riverton and in his final days, the care of the great Medical Ward staff at Kew Hospital, and Hospice. Thanks to all, but especially to Brian for his years of entertainment, enthusiasm and inspiration. Brian’s life celebration has been held. Messages to Strong Family, C/- PO Box 1345, Invercargill 9840.
Brian David Strong was born in Whangarei on July 13, 1939 to David (Wallace) and Phoebe (nee Doar) Strong. From the age of ten he was also the stepson of Selwyn Milnes. He had a somewhat chequered time at boarding school in Christchurch from the age of seven, where he no doubt honed his resilience and his sense of humour. His family looked forward to his visits home to the farm up north, despite being subject to many a prank!
After a stint as a cook in the merchant navy after leaving school, he dabbled in many different pastimes including as a motorcycle daredevil (with acts such as the “wall of death”) and also went on the stage fire-eating and sword-swallowing. He had always said he wanted to run away and join the circus.
Brian had a full life as a journalist and radio announcer, initially with the NZBC. He became a well known and popular personality in Tauranga, “competing” in such events as rickshaw racing, and elephant racing. On his show he once invited locals to send him, as Brian “Beatles” Strong, cow tail hair, which was made into a unique Beatles wig! He was eventually recruited for Radio Hauraki back in the “Pirate” days, and was part of the first team who broadcast from the ship “Tiri” out in the gulf as a protest leading to the establishment of private radio stations in New Zealand.
After that, Brian and family spent a few years in the Solomon Islands where he helped set up the new radio station, then went on to manage a fishing company. He formed a close relationship with the indigenous people, often travelling to remote villages recording their songs and photographing village life.
The family later moved back to NZ to Whakatane and Brian worked at Radio 1XX during their foundation years. Taking another break from radio, he became a professional photographer, photography (especially wildlife, social commentary, and amusing signs) being a lifelong passion.
A move to Wellington followed, where he took up a position at the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries doing audio-visual work for several years before working at the American Embassy as a media liaison officer. This involved travel to the USA and the Pacific Islands. With his (by then) portly build and quick-thinking abilities Brian made a great Santa at the embassy, and at other venues as well.
The following years saw him indulge in many of his enduring passions such as woodwork (intricate woodcarvings, fretwork, pokerwork, wood turning, miniature dolls’ house furniture, and more); Gypsy Fair traveller for several years (perhaps the closest he came to running away and joining the circus); and children’s entertainer, magician, clown and ventriloquist (including on the inter-island ferries). Back in the 80’s he had a country music weekly radio show, wrote a book on computers, did some ghost writing, and also spent time as an agency model/actor. Brian liked cooking and ran his own market food stall for a while. So, a man of many enthusiasms and talents, and a great fan of variety in life!
He achieved so much and did so well, but Brian is remembered mostly for his mischievous, quirky sense of humour. Family and friends all have funny stories of things he said or did and gags he pulled. He was hilarious but never in a loud way or as a show off. He kept his sense of humour right until the end!
Brian was married to Irene from 1963 until her passing in 2021. Irene was a journalist and a lovely lady. Although her passing was a sad occasion, it was a precious time for Brian and his loved ones. Brian and Irene were both very proud of their beautiful caring daughter Dianne who has been a great support to them both.
Brian passed on peacefully in Kew Hospital in Invercargill on 23 October 2024. At the time he was living at Longwood Care Home, Riverton.
Brian was an exceptionally gifted and talented human being who was, and always will be, an inspiration to many, a rare gem who made our lives so much richer.
🌟🙏🌟
Now Brian’s off on the greatest adventure of all. Go well Brian! Give it heaps and have fun out there! 💖🥳💖🤩💖
