There’s a Māori whakatauki that says, “Kua hinga he totara i te wao nui a Tane.” It’s used in respect and honour of a mighty member of the community who has passed from this life to the next. Translated, this ancient proverb says, “A totara has fallen in the forest of Tane.”
A totara tree, native to New Zealand, is known for its size and contribution to the forest. Growing to heights taller than most and standing for hundreds of years, Māori believe it’s a tragedy when one falls in the forest. When a person of influence passes away, their huge loss to all is acknowledged through sharing of the whakatauki, “Kua hinga he totara i te wao nui a Tane,” expressing the deep pain and sadness in the passing of this individual, who is seen as mighty as a totara tree.
The local community of Te Awamutu was deeply saddened by the recent passing of Ryan Donavan, a young husband and father who was dearly loved by all. His family each spoke at the celebration of his life and honoured him with humour and tears. His work colleagues spoke with high regard and respect, and the local school he served gave their aroha through a powerful haka.
Ryan was passionate about his faith and lived his life as a demonstration of the love of Jesus. He was a servant to many, sitting on community boards and leadership groups helping the young, the disadvantaged, and the struggling.
The Donovan family were part of our local church family for a few years, serving in leadership roles of varying capacity. There are Minutes of Leadership meetings that reflect Ryan’s contribution to the church and the congregation. It is obvious that wherever he sat, he served.
When a mighty totara falls in the forest, the Māori grieve their loss. And we, too, will grieve our loss with Ryan’s passing. But the journey does not stop there. Māori are diligent to use the mighty totara in construction of wharenui, waka and weaponry.
In the same way, we can continue the legacy of mighty men and women by honouring their lives by committing to extend their work in serving those whom they loved. We will serve Ryan’s family as best we can, and we will add our weight to the lingering impact of his work among so many.
Our prayers are with his wife Katie, the children and Ryan’s family in this difficult time.