RIP Fraser Folster

Like many in Wellington, and no doubt further afield, I am mourning the death of Fraser Folster who passed away on Friday.

Fraser was a journalist and then press secretary.  He worked for many Ministers of all hues and stripes.  He must have been one of the nicest people you can ever hope to meet.

Fraser was aged only 54, and over the last two weeks many of those who know him have been in shock when told of his limited prognosis.

Words can’t do justice to what a thoroughly decent and nice guy Fraser was.  I recall him cheerily coming in at 5 am to help do a media summary for a 6.30 am  meeting, and he was always smiling.

Fraser is somewhat infamous for missing the story of the year in 1989 when he was in hospital and David Lange came to visit him.  Lange, as he left and no doubt with a huge mischievous  smile, casually mentioned he was resigning tomorrow.  Fraser thought Lange was pulling his leg and did not follow it up, and as it happens Lange did resign the next day.

I’m not sure when the funeral service is, but will blog details when I have them.  It will be a very sad occasion.