The New Zealand weightlifting and powerlifting communities are mourning the death of Lee Attrill, a beloved athlete, coach and mentor who dedicated his life to sport, education and service.
World Powerlifting New Zealand confirmed his passing with deep sorrow, saying, “It is with great sadness to let people know that Lee Attrill has passed away today after a few years battle.
“Lee was an amazing athlete in Olympic weightlifting representing New Zealand, and coach in powerlifting, in particular working with athletes from our Special Olympics community.
“Lee will be remembered with fondness and greatly missed. Rest in peace, Lee.”
Weightlifting New Zealand also paid tribute to Attrill’s legacy, saying, “Weightlifting New Zealand wishes to extend its deepest condolences to the family, friends and South Island community of Lee Attrill, a dedicated member of WNZ, and proud New Zealand representative on the world stage. Moe mai, e hoa.”
Alongside his sporting achievements, Attrill worked at Shirley Boys’ High School in Christchurch, where he was admired by staff and students alike. He took great pride in his role, often speaking about how much he loved the school and the opportunity it gave him to connect with and support young people.
Attrill was diagnosed with multiple myeloma. In a heartbreaking fundraiser posted before his passing, his partner shared the couple’s dream of a simple, self-sufficient life together on the West Coast.
“Three years ago we sold everything we owned and brought land on the West Coast to live our dream of a self-sufficient garden,” the post read on a Give a little page.
“Lee has worked so hard to set up a living space and beautiful garden for us but unfortunately he is no longer able to do any work due to his cancer taking over.
“My dream would be for him to see and enjoy our cabin finished before he shuts his eyes for the last time. We have done up the inside and I am currently getting outside ready to paint. A fire, front door, compost toilet and accessible decking would complete his dream.
“My heart breaks and I see all his worry at a time there should not be any.”
Tributes have continued to flow online for the much-loved coach, teacher and athlete, remembered for his strength, compassion and unwavering support for others.