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Maureen POTTER Obituary

POTTER, Maureen Alys
(nee Wilson):
06/09/1932 Taranaki – 06/01/2015 Taupo, age 82. Died peacefully at home surrounded by family. At Maureen's request, a small family cremation was held. A future memorial concert will be held in early February, venue, date, time TBA. Any persons wishing to perform or participate in this tribute concert contact [email protected], phone 073788007. Communications to The Potter Family, PO Box 940 Taupo. In lieu of flowers, make donations to Hospice, The Cancer Society, or any musical group.
Taupo Funeral Services Ltd FDANZ
Published by Taranaki Daily News on Jan. 9, 2015.

Memories and Condolences
for Maureen POTTER

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78 Entries

January 6, 2021

Maree Fraser

October 9, 2019

I have just found out about Maureens passing. She was my neighbour in Taupo. I stayed with her after the breakdown of my marriage. She got me involved with her theatre and it was fun. I eventually moved out from her place when I found a place of my own. I lost contact with Maureen which is sad. Rest in Peace Maureen.

Steve Hollenbach

March 6, 2017

Hi Jinnie,
Although I only met your Mum briefly, she brimmed with life and obviously worked hard at making sure those around her were happy and embraced their own lives. I'm sorry for your loss, but considering your gain in having Maureen as a mother, I should say it's good to know she was a part of your life and lives on in you.

You're both in my prayers today.
And a big hug for Mum,

Love,
Steve H
11 Jan 2015

Potter Family

January 5, 2016

A year on Jan 6, 2016 is tomorrow. Hard to believe... a year of missing Mum. A tough year of "firsts". This summer we are each filling Xmas NY with nice first experiences, creating nicer memories. Jan 6th we gather together and scatter Mum's ashes as she wished into her "symphony of sound". Later, anyone anytime can visit there and quietly remember Mum & how she affected their life.

May 4, 2015

I am saddened to know that Maureen is no longer with us. She was such a vibrant lady, full of passion for music and theatre which she enjoyed sharing with everyone. She was my director when I appeared in "Somethings Afoot" in Putaruru many years ago and she would arrive, full of enthusiasm and bursting with new ideas, warmly wrapped in her fur coat,having driven from Taupo. Later I came to Taupo with my Music Hall group, at her invitation and stayed overnight at Peter's house.I enjoyed knowing her, she was good company and lots of fun and will be greatly missed...but never forgotten.
Dolly Varden.

All those who participated in Memories of Maureen's Tribute Concert 22 Feb 2015

J A Potter

March 1, 2015

Don Betts

February 28, 2015

As a teenager, I was reunited to music by Maureen, who I only ever knew as Maureen Wilson, after an hiatus of a few years. As my sister Dianne Estcourt has already written, Maureen taught us in our home and promised to assist me to play modern music (of the time)on the piano as long as I continued my classical lessons. This I did and she assisted me to attain grade seven.
She was vivacious and full of lie and I am privileged to have known her. I moved away from the Taranaki town of Kaponga before Maureen married so lost any knowledge of her movements until my sister mentioned her name and told me her address.
I phoned to say I would call, only to find that she had died just a week prior to my phone call. Thank you Jinnie for being willing to meet me at a time of great sorrow for you but it was very comforting to know that she had provided pleasure for so many in her new home town.

Dianne (Betts) Estcourt

February 27, 2015

I am Dianne Estcourt(nee Betts). Yes, Donald Betts's sister who also knew your mother well. Don was so sorry to miss visiting Maureen, and catching up with the news of her death within days of this happening.
She was always such a character and we remember her most for her teaching us piano as children. She arrived in our little town, Kaponga, South Taranaki,right under the mountain (Mt Egmont). To begin with, until a little local Parish hall was set up for her, she taught on our piano in the lounge of my parent's and our home. So, there began my first piano lessons. Apart from piano, she also taught singing and speech which for me, kept me busy with competitions in piano and singing. I will never forget a recitation at one of the pupil concerts: the story of The Lion and Albert a boy by the name of Albert Ramsbottom (eaten by the lion in the zoo do you know it?)I remember the shock I got at hearing such a surname! This pupil went on into Wellington and radio announcing eventually.Though I cannot recall the name right now.
Our memories are fond and strong of Maureen, coming into our dining room after lessons, full of energy and personality I had never met before and immediately fell in love with her. I eventually ended up married and farming in Reporoa and met Maureen again through our love of theatre. I was greatly involved in the little Reporoa Drama Club where we had moderate success in one-act plays and competing in the One-Act-Play Festivals throughout NZ. I was Musical Director when we put at Christmas pantomimes together a 3 night season no less haha!
I also met Jinnie at one stage in Taupo, just as she was getting really interested in the French Horn, butshe won't remember that I am sure! My last chat with Maureen was during the NZ Aria competition we hold here in Rotorua. I am on the Trust and work at organizing out volunteers.She recognised me before I did her, with her walker at that stage, and we had a lovely chat.
I was very sorry to miss out on Taupo's recognition of her.
I will be purchasing 2 DVD's one for Don and 1 for me and am delighted that there was the thought to do such a thing as recording this for those of us who missed out.
Dianne (Betts) Estcourt

at the Memories of Maureen Tribute Concert on 22/2/2015 I performed the opening of Act 1 item with Frank Sinatra's My Way/ Her Way.

Jackson Taylor

February 26, 2015

I first met 15 years ago when I first auditioned for Maureen's production of Aladdin & was cast as Genie. Was then in almost every single one of her shows and trained in singing and speech/acting with her.Our relationship instantly turned into an everyday routine. I was at her house almost every day doing stuff to do with the theatre, practicing, organizing fundraising, brainstorming show ideas. Eating her amazing soup.
I will always remember all the sausage sizzles we did together, she even helped me fundraise to go over seas.
My family Luana and Brian joined in pretty fast as well doing everything for the theatre and also becoming directors on the Board of Proscenium Theatre Magic Company.
Maureen gave me my first directing opportunity which I did, directing Taupo youth variety show at the GLC
Me and the family continued all the way to her retirement of the theatre helping her run it and do everything needed.She became like a grandma to me, she wasn't my teacher or director anymore she was family
She helped me get into drama school
Maureen paved the way for me in so many arenas. She made me a house-hold name, get nominated almost every year for the Taupo youth award.I will never forget that. She helped me find my voice.
I will miss her dearly and will never forget everything she did for me. She was an incredible lady...one of the best Taupo has ever seen. And I love her dearly.
Jackson Taylor

Debbie Trotter-Wharton

February 23, 2015

RIP Maureen Potter. Meeting you at the first reading for DODO THE CLOWN all those years ago was the start of a lifelong love of theatre for my children. You always welcomed me into your home and your theatre life and I will never forget you xx

February 21, 2015

RIP Maureen. You were one in a million. Catherine, Jeffery and myself loved learning with you and thoroughly enjoyed you staying with us while you taught in Tokoroa
You were such a talented lady who touched many lives.
With love
Pam, Catherine and Jeffery

Nan Gibson

February 20, 2015

Maureen, On returning from overseas you gave me my first work in NZ - a workshop/masterclass with your piano students. Recitals & lectures followed & Taupo became my half-way stop Akl-Wtn. You always insisted on me having the comfort of your bed, whilst you disappeared into some sort of box room! We had wonderful discussions around the kitchen table, mostly about music, which lasted far into the night. I loved your sense of humour & zest for life & will miss you deeply, but I am sure you have probably already organised a choir of angels to give joy whereever you are! Bless you dear Maureen. Maureen Potter, a wonderful, talented, inspiring selfless woman, who inspired so many musicians throughout NZ, & overseas, with heartfelt sympathy to you as we remember a life so very well lived, with loving thoughts Nan Gibson.

Billie Jean Hayward

February 11, 2015

I'm Billie Jean Hayward, a 14 year old Tauhara student. I feel honoured that I was one of Mrs Potter's last pupils, and after three years of seeing her every week it felt like I was visiting my grandmother. If she or I were too tired to move to the piano to sing, we would stay at the table and learn theory, and just talk about music and life. I would sneak over to play the piano though because I knew that listening to it made her feel good, even though she was yelling her criticism from the table which could range anywhere from blunt to complimentary. I didn't mind, I would just have a quiet giggle. She had so much knowledge about music that I wished I could have bagged it all up and kept it, and picked out little pieces as I needed them. But now that she is gone I realise that she has taught me something that will last forever, and that is the love of music.
She taught me to sing this song so that I could sing it to her after she had gone, at first it felt strange listening to her talk about dying, but after a while I realised it was because she wasn't afraid. She said she didn't know where she was going, but that it would be somewhere nice, like the Beautiful Isle of Somewhere. With all that she has given in her life, I'm sure that she is somewhere nice.

Billie Jean

Kate Ghent

January 30, 2015

On behalf of Musical Theatre NZ and the wider community theatre family of New Zealand, our sympathy and condolences on the loss of Maureen. Her contribution to local communities and at a national level was truly amazing. A well respected and loved member of the theatre community has taken her final curtain call. Kate Ghent for the MTNZ past and present

Rona Cave

January 27, 2015

" Maureen's life was music. Her teaching, performing and productions encouraged talent and enhanced the lives of so many.
Now she sings with the angels. Be happy for her. Her proud legacy and love lives on."
Love Rona

January 26, 2015

Dear Jinny, thank you for having this condolences page to record our love for your mum. She opened up the world of singing and drama that still brings fun, friendship, and joy to me today. I have and will continue to treasure our times together. Much love and blessings to you and the family - Andrew Mock.

Brett Cameron

January 24, 2015

Maureen was loved, by many, and will be sadly missed , but never forgotten. Maureen was like a2nd Mom to me and I will always treasure her memory in my heart & thoughts. Brett Cameron

Marilyn Collins-Dawson

January 24, 2015

Maureen was a Champion to you, all her students,colleagues in Reg Music Teachers, the Community,& the Musical Theatre Scene. She will be missed with sincere sympathy
Marilyn Collins-Dawson

Naomi Condon and Ann Murdoch

January 24, 2015

My thoughts are with you and the family.Although you were prepared for Mum's passing, it is still hard. There's nothing to regret. You all did all you could for her. Oh how dtermined she was to have just a little more time., i'm so glad you brought her along to some Age Concern event, to catch up with those of us who had lost touch over the years.Please share a hug with Peter from me. Love from Naomi.
Memories are heartbeats that linger through the years. Life is a collection of memories to share of happiness inside that will always be there. Ann

Shirley Noonan

January 24, 2015

We knew of your mother, Maureen, through her Uncle Gordon and Aggie Cave, who were our good friends from Kaponga. Our thoughts are with you. Shirley and Peter Noonan

Joy Johnson

January 24, 2015

A great Identity in Taupo history has passed away, but will be fondly Remembered

Age Concern

January 24, 2015

It is with our deepest sympathy to hear of the loss of your mother and Grandmother Maureen, Our thoughts are with you at this time of loss and sorrow.If there is anything that we can help you with please do not hesitate to contact us. Age Concern Taupo.

Andrew Welch

January 24, 2015

Sharon & I extend our sympathy. We fondly remember the many shows that we were all involved with and the singing lessons we both received.It was great to see Maureen, with members of her family,attend some of our recent Taupo Live Poets poetry meetings. Her talent, interest and encouragement, as ever, was always to the fore. Her passing is a sad occasion. Sharon and Andrew Welch (JP)

Creative Taupo

January 24, 2015

Maureen was involved in music & theatre for some fifty years or more in Taupo (since 1959. She was truly a legend and her legacy will endure with the many (thousands) of students of all ages that she assisted& encouraged with her supportive tuition. Maureen devoted much time & effort working for the Taupo Dramatic & Operatic Societies & her own Proscenium Theatre Magic Co. Her shows were enjoyable & successful. They will be fondly remembered by the audiences and those involved. We also acknowledge her past service on the Taupo Community Arts Council (now Creative Taupo) in the 1970s.. On behalf of Creative Taupo, I extend our deepest sympathy

Madeline Ridley

January 24, 2015

you know how we feel ~ your mother was a complete treasure and , with you, we mourn her loss. Our thoughts are with you at this time. With kindest regards Taupo Health Centre

Astrid & Nicky

January 24, 2015

Our thoughts are with you at this time. Maureen was a wonderful person. Astrid and Nicky

The Lake Taupo Hospice Team

January 24, 2015

It's been a privilege for our team to have been involved in the care of Maureen. Our thoughts are with you at this time. Kind Regards from all the team at Lake Taupo Hospice

Fitzsimmon Family

January 24, 2015

Our thoughts are with you at the passing of a wonderful, talented lady.
Fitzsimmons Family (Shalee was a past student of Maureen's)

Taupo Cosmopolitan Club

January 24, 2015

In Deepest Sympathy on your sad loss. From All of Us at the Taupo Cossie Club.

Chris Saunders

January 24, 2015

Our prayers are with you all as your grieve, and celebrate Maureen's life. Her legacy through music and theater will long continue. May your memories bring you comfort. Christopher and Kaye Saunders

Bev Cook

January 24, 2015

So sorry to hear of the passing of Maureen. She was a bright, shining star and will be sorely missed

Vivene Sands

January 24, 2015

We share your sorrow at the loss of your dear mother and grandmother. She was a unique and wonderful person, who we will always remember with affection. Viv and Jeff Sands

Wynne Murdock

January 24, 2015

I had the pleasure of visiting Maureen at 7am on Monday mornings for piano lessons many years ago. It was often a drama, always entertaining and I loved starting the week with Maureen, enjoying my lessons as wee rehasshed the previous week in Taupo. A stunning lady. My condolences to the family. Kind regards Wynne Murdock

Colin Cockburn

January 24, 2015

So sorry to learn Maureen has passed away. She will be missed by all who were privileged to know her. I hope the support of your friends and family help you all through this very sad time. The memorial concert will be a fitting tribute to one of Taupo's defining personalities. I hope to be there. Yours in sympathy Colin & Jenny

Christine Haugh

January 23, 2015

Maureen taught me singing for 17years and the piano for 5 years and we became friends I loved Maureen and she understood me I will always remember Maureen She was a special person and I feel so blessed that she was part of my life

Lou Cameron

January 22, 2015

i'm thankful & grateful to Maureen for the gift of music which shall stay with me all my life. She was a very generous teacher. i'm very thankful for that as I was rather 'bruised' from my musical start with the nuns (bless them!) Maureen has added so much richness and joy to so many people's lives. I will always remember her with love... and a smile. Lou and Mark.

Annamarie Harris

January 22, 2015

Martin & I have known Maureen for many years. Both of us are involved woth Rotorua Musical Theatre. (Maureen directed Martin in 'My Fair Lady') and I as a Registered Music Teacher (sat and passed LTCL piano at Maureen's home in the 1980s). She was a talented and caring woman & will be missed by many. However, Memories stay forever. Condolences from Annamarie Martin Harris & family

Winsome Wensley

January 22, 2015

It's hard to believe Maureen has gone. She has been part of my life since coming to Taupo in 1981!I would never have imagined then that she would be teaching my children - Denholm & Skylar! I will miss our lengthy musical chit chats. (I'm so glad I acknowledged Maureen's musical contribution to so many at the recent annual Huka Lodge Community Xmas afternoon tea. All the best, Winsome, Richmond, Denholm & Skylar

Hazel Hausman

January 22, 2015

On behalf of the Rotorua Branch of the Institute of Registered Music Teachers I would like to extend our deepest sympathy for the loss of Maureen. Maureen will be remembered by the many people always by the many people she befriended and helped as well as taught in the music community for her lively and gregarious nature. Hazel Hausman Sec, Rot , IRMTNZ

Elizabeth Marshall

January 22, 2015

Every time I met Maureen at concerts, meetings to promote the arts) I felt optimistic that music in Taupo was in good hands. Her humour, patience, and endeavours have shown this to be true. Long life such ideals. Our loving memories of Maureen are assured. Elizabeth, Peter and the Marshall family

Kate- from Spotlight Magazine

January 22, 2015

We were extremely sorry to hear of Maureen's passing. Her contribution both at a community and national level of musical theatre was outstanding. A great lady, she is well remembered by many musical theatre people around NZ & Australia with much love and fondness. Maureen received an MTNZ merit award in 1993 - an inaugural recipient. We will honour her at our AGM with others who passed away during the year. Have a great tribute concert and celebrate her wonderful achievements. The executive of Musical Theatre NZ (past and present) and the theatre family around NZ/ Austeralia

Laurel Gilligan

January 22, 2015

We were very fortunate to have Maureen Wilson as our music teacher in the 1950s when wewere pupils at the Kapuni School, South Taranaki. Her excellent tuition has carried us on with our continuing enjoyment of music. Laurel and Gail (nee Collins)

Phyllis Dassah, nee Dickinson

January 22, 2015

Maureen & I were in the same year at Stratford Tech School and both shared a love of music. When Stratford had their 75th anniversary Maureen was chosen to take the soprano solos , and myself the contralto solos. We would have been 19 at the time. She was a great encouragement for me. The Messiah in the Bowl of Brooklyn in NP was a wonderful night. Even my dad enjoyed it! Fond memories

Maureen Mitchell (nee Jones,Head)

January 22, 2015

I'm saddened by your loss of your wonderful mother who had such an amazing passion for the Arts, especially music and theatre. I have fond memories of Dorothy Lewis, Sonya Austin & Maureen, being involved with great Taupo College Musicals in the early 1970s. I learnt so much from them all over those years. Maureen could always find, bring the best out of so many young people - it was a gift. I know you have great memories of your own to hold onto. Maureen was a great teacher, musician, friend to so many.

Christine Haugh

January 22, 2015

Maureen will always have a special place in my heart. Maureen was an amazing woman. With love from Christine, Lyndon, David, Michael and Jessica

Anne Glogowski

January 21, 2015

IN MEMORY OF MAUREEN, SINGER-TEACHER- FRIEND.
The news of Maureen's death was so sad, but no doubt a release from her tired and troublesome body. She was a wonderful teacher and mentor and my only regret is that I didn't take her advice to further my singing career! We shared acting and musical moments together on stage! My sympathies to al her family at this sad time and may you be happy with the knowledge that all those to whom she passed on her talents will be thinking about the life and times of this warm and wonderful woman. The beautiful song she taught me called "A Blackbird Singing" will always remain in my heart and soul. Love from Anne Glogowski (Izetti)

January 19, 2015

To Jinnie, Rafe and Brad
My heartfelt wishes with you on the passing of a fine lady. Maureen and I first met at age 12 when my dad sold her parents a tractor. We discovered that both of us were pupils for both singing and music at the NP Convent. Our friendship was very much sister and brother style.
We lost contact with each other in the early 50's, but Joy, joy, joy, we became reacquainted at a national amateur operatic society conference in 1967.
I was living in Rotorua, my good lady Heather and Maureen became close friends as well. As a team in the field of operatic musicals we were leaders, music wise, I always admired Maureen's abilities, she was a virtually indefatigably extremely talented person whom deserved an MBE for her sparkling achievement in life. A real live “My Fair Lady”
After a joint friendship spanning 70 odd years Vale Maureen,
Sincerely William (Bill) Gear

Hilltop School 50th anniversary

David Hamilton

January 19, 2015

Dear Jinnie and Potter family

Condolences on the passing of Maureen. I had nearly 10 years of lessons with her (1964-1973), and to say she was a formative influence on my life would be an understatement. Without her support, teaching, encouragement, and urging, I'm sure I wouldn't have made Music a career.
It was nice to reconnect with Maureen over the past few years, and I delighted she was able to be at the premiere of the piece I wrote for Hilltop school's 50th anniversary, and also attend my concert with Taupo Choral Society in 2013.
Taupo has truly lost one of it's most colourful characters!

January 18, 2015

Dear Jinnie

Our deepest condolences to you and your family - it is so sad to lose a precious Mum - hope you are doing well
Love Diana and co xxxxxx
xxxxxxxx

Maureen with cousin Lesley Cave at Taupo Live Poets Xmas lunch Dec 7 2014

January 18, 2015

Erina Satoo

January 18, 2015

I would like to send you deep condolences to you and your family.
I am sure you are facing a difficult situation where you need to face your mom's absence and need to conduct whatever needs to be done. ... I hope you are coping alright.
She was a very social person and a very nice, caring lady. I remember Onchan and your mum in Japan the night you both came to our parents for a meal and Maureen gave Onchan a piano lesson. They both look so smiley in the photo. you and your family gave Onchan a super time when she visited NZ/ She was 17 then.
I'm sorry for the great loss. And I'm sure her soul stays with you all the time.

Dorothy Perkins

January 18, 2015

Most people just live their lives and leave few ripples but clearly your mother was an outstanding woman who made for many a much richer life.
Please accept my sympathy for your loss.
Dorothy

Emma Welch

January 18, 2015

Much love to u all during this time of grief and reflection. Your mum was an amazing lady and touched many peoples hearts...perhaps many lives. Her passion for the arts and her legacy are iconic!
Regards
Emma Welch

Ruth Arnison

January 17, 2015

Thinking of you at such a momentous time in your life. Nothing can prepare you for the loss of a parent.

Brenda Godkin

January 17, 2015

It is very, very hard to lose a parent. A good friend of mine described it as having a great big gaping hole in your life and as time passes, you still know that hole is there yet it is less noticeable and less painful however you always know it is there.

Dave Bockett

January 17, 2015

I remember when I was travelling through the north island in summer 2006 and my friend and I both had our girlfriends with us (mine was Alice), and we decided to stop for lunch with Maureen. We filled our bellies, had a catch up and we're off on our merry way again. Maureen said the most memorable thing to our two girlfriends, DONT YOU GIRLS GET PREGNANT NOW YOU HEAR! The girls thought it was the funniest thing since sliced bread. She is a pretty honest aunty they said! I agreed.
That has stuck in my mind clear as day since then.
I hope the family gathering goes well and the memorial concert will be a hit I'm sure.
Alice and I have been thinking lots about the Potter family and hope you guys can celebrate her life and send her off in style at the production.
We hope she rests in peace now and forever.
pass our condolences to Raf, Brad and Peter.
Lots of Love
David and Alice Bockett

Miranda Jefferies

January 17, 2015

Maureen Potter has passed away. She was the Founder of the Taupo Operatic Society which went on to merge with the Taupo Dramatic Society in 1986 to become Centre Stage Taupo Inc.
Maureen has directed countless shows over the years and was awarded an Honourary Life Membership to Centre Stage in recognition for her services.
A dedicated music teacher and supporter of the Arts, Maureen was loved by her students and their families.
You will be missed, rest in peace.

Robbie Cave

January 17, 2015

The distance that the three of us Cave girls have become long accustomed to is keenly felt. Nevertheless there will be no sad song sung today by Barbara, Lesley, and Robyn. But for sure we will share with you a deep gratitude for the wonderfully rich unique memories we have of Maureen and for the many ways her life has helped to shape ours. Articles about our cousin from publications such as the NZ Listener, June 21, 1957, photographs taken from boxes... Maureen and Wyonne looking gorgeous; Ron and Maureen's partner Jerry, dashing in their tuxes'. Perhaps taken at a dance in the Mahoe School hall?
Maureen was more like a sister to Wyonne. They didn't just live on the Cave farm together; they played for the same netball team. While Maureen was the consummate professional, and Wyonne the aspiring amateur, they both thrived being in the world of theatre, music, and among people who shared their passion. As Barbara said, Maureen was a woman with style. As a little girl she would watch Maureen get dressed, spellbound by her beautiful dresses and shoes. This was some popular young woman.
The sisterly bonds didn't stop with Mum. Maureen became Barbara's ‘big sister'; Maureen was her idol. One of Barb's earliest childhood memories was announcing to Mum that she was “off to see Maureen's new piano”. She was discovered walking along the road near the Mahoe dairy factory by one of the local farmers, still declaring to the passer-by, her intentions. Of course it was Maureen who taught Barbara the piano, preparing her for her theory exams with not a whiff of preferential treatment.... Unlike, it appears, with the journeys she made with Maureen through to Taupo, to visit Aunty Girlie and Uncle Brad. Maureen would let Barbara take over the steering wheel for what seemed mile upon mile.

For us girls, Maureen is intrinsically linked to the memories of our holidays away from Taranaki. After the cows had been dried off, and later when Mum and Dad escaped the 7-day family business. Making the nighttime car journeys over to Taupo to Tonga Cabins Bed and Breakfast to stay with Girlie, Brad, and Johnny. Trips out on the lake in Uncle Brad's boat. Sunbathing on the roof. Wyonne and Maureen posing for the camera with their ‘catch of the day'. The times sitting around Maureen and Peter's table for the rainbow trout breakfast.... and for a sherry or two, or three. Staying at Tauhara Road. Looking after wee Jinnie, before Raf and Brad's arrival. Seeing Maureen's students come and go. On occasions, even carrying out some tidying around the house.... Housework didn't ever seem to figure large in the list of duties to be performed or the desires of Maureen or Mum. Much more creative tasks to do!
We remember listening to Radio 2XP broadcasts, proud to let others know that soprano Maureen Wilson was a member of “our family”, and enjoying her successes. Robyn has treasured bearing ‘Maureen' as her second name. By a process of familial osmosis she has learned so much from Maureen about the art of presence – in theatre, and in the beauty and liturgy of music that became gifts for her own journey.

We will sing no sad songs today as we celebrate Maureen's very full and creative life. Our sadness will be because our presence is not “kanohi ki te kanohi” – face to face. However we three Cave girls have promised that with our memories and our prayers, we will have a sherry or two, or three. Left over from preparing our Christmas trifles, and then as Maureen herself identified in the exquisitely appropriate lyrics written by Shirley Erena Murray: We will remember the “ripeness” of Maureen's years, for the “richness” of her days, for her “gifts unique and dear”, we will give God thanks and praise”.
Family, love to you all – e te whanau, arohanui ki a koutou

Grace Coulter

January 17, 2015

My mind has been flitting back to memories with Maureen when we were all a lot younger, in Tauponui-a-tia library doing Correspondence School music, at her house for lessons and times not so long ago with you both, like the outing to the Taupo artglass place.

Morag McDowell

January 17, 2015

Maureen is undoubtedly, the reason why I'm singing today, and I am so very grateful for how she taught, mentored and persevered with me!

Alison Mudford

January 17, 2015

My sincere condolences to you, Rafe, Brad and all the family.
We are so very sad to hear the news of Maureen's passing, as she has been such a wonderful friend to me over so many years. We had great times together and I will always remember them. But we are also pleased for her that her suffering is now over. I know how frustrated she was by her incapacity of recent times.
She will be playing duets with Mum. They so enjoyed each other's company.
She also helped me find a way to get my life out of a black hole when no one else could. I'm sure it was no coincidence that we were both at an Auckland production of Macbeth then bumped into one another and reconnected after so many years.
Zay and I so enjoyed spending time with her earlier last year. She was so bright and funny and brilliant, as always, even though her body was letting her down. Her eyes sparkled as she talked and her smile lit up the room. We both cherish the memories of those precious hours together.

Jill, Wayne, Angela and Michael Steele

January 17, 2015

We are so saddened to hear of Maureen's passing and send our thoughts and love to all the Potter family at this sad time. What an amazing lady Maureen was and she leaves behind a legacy of talented students to continue her love of music and performing. We will always remember her with the upmost respect and gratitude.

Louise Cook

January 16, 2015

how fabulous!

You must be so proud of all your Mum's accomplishments. When you see it summarised in this article, everything she was involved with and achieved, you really go… wow! What a difference she made to so many lives, what a legacy. And she loved it, she had a fabulous life didn't she! What a lovely way to be remembered. Love to you all xx I'm sorry I won't be able to make it up for the concert but Mum and Jen will be there. I hope it will be recorded? Love Lou

Richard Lawson

January 16, 2015

What a lovely article in the Taupo -Turangi Weekender. You must be very proud. Not many people do so much with their lives and such a lot for others.

Steve Prentice

January 15, 2015

Great memories of; the constant soup on the Rayburn (offered to one and all), the cats, Maureen's ever enduring interest in the arts, and her fierce devotion to her family and friends. She will be missed.

Jackson Taylor

January 13, 2015

Maureen Potter was a huge influence in my teen years. I worked with Maureen almost daily for 5 years with everything to do with the arts. She even helped me produce my own show. Maureen was like a grandmother to me I am so saddened by her passing. I remember all the amazing times with her, fundraising, having endless meals together and putting together all her shows. My mother Luana even had so much to do with her theatre company. RIP Maureen you will be missed by many.

Derm and Aileen Buchanan

January 13, 2015

We are friends of Peter Potter and got to know Maureen and Jinny through him. We enjoyed her music and believe she used her gift to the max.Rest in Peace dear friend. We will miss you, especially your fish and chips on Fridays at Peters place.

Bryan Lewis with Maureen at her 80th birthday in 2012 , shared celebration party with Jo Bergman.

Bryan Lewis

January 12, 2015

“You spent hours working with me on trying to improve my speech, got me involved on stage shows and even got me singing. R.I.P. Maureen Potter. Thank you for giving me the confidence to get up in front of a load of people to speak and thank you for never giving up on me. Taupo has lost a gem.”

Susan Haldane

January 12, 2015

Maureen what a huge influence you had on me...from Pinnochio through to the Sound Of Music and Annie get your Gun..Fabulous happy childhood memories and the love of piano,the gift of teaching me to spend time alone with the piano and the feeling of absolute contentment.I wish you peace and love..Namaste xx

My Mum at the Mihi Bridge Cafe

Jinnie Potter

January 11, 2015

Thanks so much everyone. It was her time. She was and is and will always remain my mum, an amazingly, wonderful strong person with an incredible talent that was her passion to use well.

sharon thompson

January 10, 2015

I have so many memories. Sitting slaving over the theory lessons in the caravan out back, at the piano repeating my scales again and again, hearing her praise when I finally got it right....the comps and singing lessons. Mostly the Operatic Productions especially The Sound of Music ......thank you Maureen so many precious memories. In my heart always Sharon(Dixon)

Louise Quinn

January 10, 2015

I loved you so much Maureen we had such a wonderful time together and I will never forget what you taught me I will never forget you

Connie Takarangi

January 10, 2015

Although my son and I knew Maureen for such a short time, we felt we had a lifetime of experiences with her. Maureen and Paris would chat before and after his lesson like they had known each other forever, and in that short time she taught my son so much, not just about music but how to work hard to get what you want in life. We miss her greatly, but also feel blessed to have been part of her world. Connie & Paris

Lynn Harriman

January 10, 2015

I have so many memories of Maureen going back to my teens. Sleeping in the memorial hall during My Fair Lady. What times we had. She was a dear friend and mentor to me and I went to her for lots of advice when I decided to have a go at directing. I will miss seeing you around town and at the Centre Stage. God Bless you Maureen you enriched so many lives. XX Lynn

January 10, 2015

Sitting at her kitchen table discussing the latest theatre project and surrounded by theatrical memorabilia we would share laughter and solve the problems of the world over and over again. Maureen gave me many opportunities to stretch my "directing" wings and I am a better person for knowing her. I'm confident she's up there collecting a new band of theatrical Angels to put on a show. Much love from Debbie Wharton x

Natalie Lloyd

January 9, 2015

Floods of memories of Maureen - piano lessons, singing lessons, competitions and concerts, along with fun, laughing, learning and a lifetime love and appreciation of music. Love and thoughts to you all, Natalie Lloyd (Mahar)

Showing 1 - 78 of 78 results

Memorial Events
for Maureen POTTER

To offer your sympathy during this difficult time, you can now have memorial trees planted in a National Forest in memory of your loved one.