Tributes continue to flow for Charlie Agi, a respected and much loved father, educator, and entertainer, who died suddenly from a heart attack on Monday 16th June.
Charlie was a well-known figure in his community, described by friends and colleagues as a natural leader with a warm heart, quick wit and deep devotion to his whānau.
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He was the presiding board member of Te Kura o Tuahiwi, where he played a key role in supporting the school and its children.
In a message to the community, the school said Charlie’s passing had left the kura in deep mourning.
“His leadership and commitment to our kura and tamariki has been immense, and his presence will be deeply missed.”
The kura was close on Friday to allow staff and whānau to attend Charlie’s tangi and pay their respects.
Charlie also ran a cocktail catering business called Cheeky Charlie’s, bringing fun and flavour to private functions and events across the region.
In a post on the company’s Facebook page, his wife Tracy said Charlie had left behind a legacy of laughter and love.
“To everyone who welcomed him into your homes and events, who shared a laugh and a drink with him – thank you. Your support meant the world,” she said.
Friends have described Charlie as “an extraordinary individual who touched countless lives,” with one saying, “he always had a genuine smile, and a way of making people feel at ease.”
He is survived by his wife Tracy and their five children.
A Givealittle fundraising page, created by his employer Primary Connect, raised over $1,400 in just seven days.
The page said the money would go towards funeral costs and help support the family as they navigate life without Charlie.
“‘Cheeky Charlie’ will forever be missed and cherished by all who had the privilege of knowing him,” the fundraiser read.
“He was a friend, a mentor, an amazing leader and someone who would always go out of his way to help anyone.”
Messages of condolence have poured in on social media, with many sharing memories of Charlie’s humour, generosity and infectious energy.
One supporter wrote, “Charlie was one of the kindest people I’ve ever met. His heart was huge.”
Another said, “This is heartbreaking. Love to Tracy and the kids. You could always feel the aroha in everything Charlie did.”
