RIP Bill Brien

I heard the sad news yesterday:

Celebrated Wellington publican, policeman and rugby stalwart Bill Brien has died aged 73.

Mr Brien, who witnessed New Zealand’s last execution in 1957 and ran the city’s Rose and Crown pub for 19 years, was renowned for his community work.

He was awarded Rotary International’s highest award in 2000 and made a member of the New Zealand Order of Merit in 2008. He suffered a stroke in late 2008, and died on Sunday night.

Francie Russell, his partner of 16 years, described Mr Brien as a “very generous person” who loved Wellington. He helped numerous city community and sporting organisations through his long-term role as a trustee with Pub Charity.

Bill was very well known in Wellington, and devoted a large part of his life to helping the community. He was a great bloke.

Condolences to Francie and the rest of his family.