Sunday, November 01, 2009

Message from Victoria University Press

We are tremendously sad to tell you of the sudden death of Heather McKenzie, in the very early hours of Sunday morning. Heather’s energy and enthusiasm, and above all her warmth, will be sorely missed by all of us in the book community. Our heartfelt sympathy goes to Heather’s partner Neil Brown, and to all her family and friends. Funeral arrangements will be advised.

Fergus Barrowman

6 comments:

Anonymous said...

This principled, passionate, warm and generous woman will be missed by all of us in the world of NZ books.

Beattie's Book Blog said...

The Bookman could not agree more. I was absolutely stunned when I learned the news. Shocking and unbelievable.
Most weeks over the four years since I set up this blog I have had e-mail communications with Heather. She has always been pro-active, cheerful, efficient, effective and a joy to work with.Nothing was ever a problem.
I shall miss her enormously and I extend my deepest and truly heartfelt sympathy to her partner Neil Brown and to her colleagues at VUP.

Rachael King said...

I can't even say how much I will miss her. This is a very very sad time.

Unknown said...

Neil rang me this morning and shattered my world. I worked with Heather over a number of years and was there the night Neil and Heather first hooked up. Our last get together was too long ago. My thoughts and love are with you Neil, family and friends. - Kim Whitaker-Barnett

David Howard said...

Over the past sixteen months I represented Otago University Press, and only left them two weeks ago. While working 'in the trade' I only had occasional contact with Heather, however she was invariably courteous, efficient, and a credit to VUP. My condolences to her partner, colleagues, and friends.

Jane Harris said...

Neil is tremendously thankful for the love and support that is surrounding him — and for stories about Heather.

Her funeral will be at 11.00am on Friday at Old St Paul's in Wellington (gather for 10.30). Neil would like people to bring a garden flower for Heather's casket.

There is also an online page for Heather where people can leave messages about Heather and for Neil if they would like to:

www.tributes.co.nz