Thousands Honor Field Siblings in Vibrant Farewell at Funeral

Thousands gathered at Crossroads Church in Palmerston North on November 21, 2023, to celebrate the lives of three siblings—August, Hugo, and Goldie Field—who were tragically killed in an incident involving their father. Attendees were encouraged to wear bright colors, reflecting the joyous spirit of the young children. The funeral, described as a vibrant tribute, saw so many mourners that some struggled to find seating inside the church.

The outpouring of grief and support was palpable, with nearly 400 people tuning in to the live stream of the service. Family and friends filled the venue, creating a backdrop of love and remembrance as they honored the siblings’ short but impactful lives. The children arrived in three hearses, each adorned with colorful coffins: pink for Goldie, blue for August, and green for Hugo.

Emotional Tributes Captured Their Spirit

As the service commenced, funeral celebrant Aingie Miller welcomed the crowd and read a heartfelt statement from their mother, Chelsey Field. In her message, she referred to her children as her “sweet three beautiful brown-eyed darlings,” expressing an unyielding love for them. “You were my absolute world,” she stated, evoking tears among the attendees.

Chelsey shared poignant memories of each child, starting with August, who was born in November 2017. Despite battling pneumonia as an infant, he grew into a spirited boy with a love for cars, trucks, and the color blue. Described as a doting older brother, August was nicknamed Augie and had a passion for music, often delighting his family with his rendition of Queen’s “We Will Rock You.” He would have celebrated his eighth birthday just days after the funeral.

Hugo, affectionately known as Johnny, was characterized as a loving “mama’s boy” who admired August. His interests included dinosaurs and athletics, where he excelled in shot put competitions at school. Goldie, the youngest at just over a year old, was celebrated for her infectious happiness and ability to light up any room. Known as “Goldie girl,” she had already formed a bond with her brothers, proudly cheering them on in their daily activities.

A Community United in Grief

The service not only commemorated the siblings but also included a tribute to Marlo, the family’s miniature schnauzer, who also perished in the tragic event. Marlo’s small white coffin was placed in front of Goldie’s, symbolizing the family’s deep connections.

Throughout the ceremony, family members shared personal anecdotes, illustrating the siblings’ vibrant personalities and the joy they brought to those around them. “She loved her brothers and was their biggest supporter,” Chelsey noted about Goldie, emphasizing the close-knit relationship they shared.

As the service concluded, the collective grief felt by the community highlighted the profound impact of the siblings’ lives. Chelsey expressed her gratitude for the memories captured through photos and videos, stating, “We had so much fun together, we made so many great memories I will cherish forever.”

The funeral served as a reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of community in times of tragedy. Attendees left with heavy hearts but also with a sense of unity, forever carrying the memories of August, Hugo, and Goldie.