My name is Andy Hearn. I started out knowing Chris as one of his Lloyds Bank branch staff members and I am honoured to stand here today to read my tribute to a very special person and dear friend. For a 20 year old to form a friendship with a stranger who is 25 years older is not normal. I met Chris back in 1988 and he was not normal. I have not witnessed anyone who loved life, loved his family, loved his friends or loved anything that went on in a boat as much. Chris was full of life. His immense levels of passion coupled with his have a go attitude to do anything and go anywhere meant he always had a smile on his face and was fun to be around. Consequently, his amazing knowledge and library of experiences meant there were always interesting tales to tell. His big cheesy grin, his mischievous twinkle and playful sense of humour was infectious. He always looked out to ensure everyone had in his words a "knockout time". One memorable moment was when asked about his experience at a Titanic themed restaurant with full sinking water effects. He responded with two thumbs up, a big grin and said "It was a disaster". At work just like at sea, Chris went to great lengths to maintain a happy ship and crew. He was a great listener, he was a great teacher and he was a great leader. His ability to do this at times under difficult circumstances with a smile meant he commanded respect effortlessly. He excelled in making things happen where others before him had failed. During my formative years he was my mentor. Many times he went out of his way to include me in learning opportunities that help set me up for life. He opened my eyes to what life had to offer and he took the time to help me make the right decisions that have dramatically changed the course of my life. When I eventually settled in Australia, I was chuffed that Chris and Mary came to our wedding, so much so they came on the honeymoon too! In 2008 they ventured out again to Australia which gave my children the opportunity to meet and spend quality time with two amazing people. Holly and Keegan thought they were wonderful and had tremendous fun but sobbed when it was time to say goodbye. Last year we had the opportunity to come to Holme and not surprisingly Chris and Mary made sure we all had a top time. We shall always remain forever grateful. Chris very much worked to live. Beyond sailing he had an extensive and wide variety of interests including music, history and travel. He thrived on sharing them with his friends and family. Chris made the most of every opportunity, cramming in every minute with fun and excitement. Again his energy and drive was infectious and nothing was beyond him. The biggest thing in Chris's life was his family. The love for his family and pride was evident for all to see. They are the richest family I know because of their close bond and all the wonderful moments they have shared together and can now cherish forever. So here is my tribute to Skip: Thank you for all the good times and fun Thank you for the laughs and daft jokes Thank you for the unconditional help and support you gave to anyone who needed it Thank you for sharing your stories and vast knowledge Thank you for listening and showing us the way Thank you for the encouragement and help Thank you for being an inspiration Thank you for being the father that I want to be (And to use both an Australian and nautical term) Thank you for being our mate