Tributes have poured in for a friendly, fun and lovable colleague, husband and father who died recently.
The Signs Publishing family, Adventist Media and the Australian Union Conference are mourning the tragic loss of James Maae. He leaves behind his wife Maine and son Elijah.
After an accident on January 28, Mr Maae was rushed to intensive care but passed away two days later.
He had worked at Signs for the past three years, commencing as distribution support officer on September 8, 2014.
“He arrived that day with a happy smile and friendly banter and soon became a much-loved friend and workmate to us all in the Signs family,” said production manager Ray Portbury.
“Nothing was too much trouble for James. He was always willing to help, not only here but in the community of Warburton. If he saw someone in need or in trouble he stopped to help and care for them.”
Sonia Knight, his direct supervisor and Signs distribution manager, agrees. “Many of you would have experienced his willingness to go above and beyond the call of duty, even if it meant extra work for the packing guys,” she said. “Nothing was ever a problem for him and he seemed to be drawn to those who were in need.”
Mr Maae studied theology at Avondale College of Higher Education before the family moved to Victoria. He spent some time as associate pastor of Warburton church. [pullquote]
Mrs Maae previously worked at Signs in finance before moving to her current role at the AUC. Her colleagues at the AUC have set up a GoFundMe page to support the family. Visit www.gofundme.com/james-maae-supporting-his-family.
As a sign of respect and to allow staff to attend Mr Maae’s funeral, Signs Publishing will be closed on Monday, February 12.
