Neil Stocker

Neil Stocker. Photo / Supplied

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Neil Glyn Stocker has been described as a devoted family man who was dedicated to his work and was a well-known face in the Timaru community.

Neil, 58, was one of three men killed in the earthquake while working to dismantle a pipe organ at the Durham St Methodist Church in the Christchurch CBD.

The foreman at the South Island Organ Company, Neil had worked at the company since it was established in 1968.

Throughout the years, he had become the go-to man, being an expert at building organs.

Long-time friend and colleague John Hargraves - director of the company - broke down as he paid tribute to his friend in the days after the earthquake.

"I've worked with him the whole life of the company. He was our first apprentice, in 1968, straight out of school. He was an extremely talented craftsman. He was an expert at making things. He could make every part of the organ very well," Mr Hargraves said.

"He is a huge loss to the company. He has taught so many apprentices and he was a very good friend."

As well as being a hard-working colleague, Neil was heavily involved in the community.