Jock Davies, the young Otago man who died in a hunting accident on Stewart Island/Rakiura, was farewelled in Tapanui on Monday.
The 21-year-old was in a party of nine on the South Lords River hunting block and was believed to have been shot and died at the scene on Saturday, July 5.
Jock’s parents, Pete and Sarah Davies, followed their youngest son’s coffin into the packed hall, along with his older brothers George and Tom.
The coffin was decorated with an array of messages, as well as the beads of courage he wore during his two battles with leukaemia as a child.
Mrs Davies began the service by thanking the hundreds in attendance, before taking the time to acknowledge the police and search and rescue teams "who kept Jock company overnight until he could come home".
"Our cheeky, blue-eyed blond boy embraced life from day one.
"He was slowed down a bit in 2013 when he was diagnosed with leukaemia," she said.
"During Jock’s cancer journey, he showed strength, resilience, courage and determination."
She remembered her boy as someone who loved his friends, family, sport and the outdoors.
"You’ve left a lasting impression on so many. We’re all going to miss you so much."
Jock had been working with a group of boys at King’s High School in Dunedin and had recently told his father of his desire to train as a teacher.
"I’ve been lucky to have a son who has lived 21 years to the max. He’s entertained, he’s cared, he’s thought, he’s stirred, he’s cuddled, he’s loved," Mr Davies said. — APL
