Charlie Pedersen and Don Nicolson We first met Frank when he came to Federated Farmers National Councils as the Dairy representative for the West Coast. As a confident speaker (some might say determinedly opinionated) Frank soon got noticed. He was affable, and with his trademark Colonel Sanders / Santa Claus/Kenny Rogers good looks, by the end of his first Dairy Farmers meeting he was well known. He had great ability to connect with and represent farmers, and he soon progressed through the ranks to become the Federations National Dairy Chair, and in that role, he was automatically on the Federations National Board presided over by Charlie. At the end of his Dairy role, he become an elected Board member at large under Don’s presidency and became the National Vice President and spokesman on a variety of issues. Franks enthusiasm and growing experience and willingness to get deep into all manner of issues was a joy, but also a challenge. The media loved his loquacious output. After his stint in the National ranks Franks loyalty and commitment to the Federation had him back home and become President for North Canterbury. Not many former National representatives do that, so that’s the mark of the man who wanted to give his experience and his time back closer to the grass roots. Over the years we got to know Margaret too. The mutual care and admiration Frank and Margaret had for one another was clear. To represent farmers, family and business sacrifice is made and that’s so much easier if there is a someone at home keeping things straight while the Feds person concentrates on that role. They were a team. It was a huge shock when Basil Meyer called us with the news about Margaret and then a few days later about Frank. We wish it could be different, but we remember them both with fondness and give our thoughts and deepest sympathies to their family and wider circle of friends. Charlie Pedersen and Don Nicolson.

Posted by Don Nicolson, Charlie Pedersen on October 15, 2024

My deepest sympathy to the families at such a sad time. I have wonderful memories of Frank and Margaret. With much love Donna. John 16:22 "So with you: Now is your time of grief, but I will see you again and you will rejoice, and no one will take away your joy."

Posted by Donna Gillatt on October 13, 2024

Arne & families. Please accept our Deepest Sympathy in the tragic loss of both your parents. Please know that others our with you all at this very sad time. RIP Margaret & Frank 👏👏

Posted by Mary & Colin Palmer on October 12, 2024

My sincere condolences. I have fond memories of working on the dairy farm at the end of Mako Mako road in Levin in the 80's. Mark Brenmuhl and I would come out there after school and on weekends and help with milking, hay bailing and clearing rocks from fields. We got to ride tractors and motorbikes, play with the kids and the dogs and uncle Bruiser and auntie Margaret were always very kind and caring and also very practical and direct with advice and motivation. We had a lot of laughs in the milking shed and got to experience a little rural life so close to town along with a few life lessons. I am grateful for those experiences. Rest in Peace Bruiser and Margaret.

Posted by Andrew Dagelet on October 9, 2024

A view of the farm in Levin at the end of Mako Mako Road

Posted by Andrew Dagelet on October 8, 2024