Before long the pair started a relationship and she moved in 18 months ago.
“She wasn’t living very well, she was on the bones of her arse and then Tomi took her in and started feeding her, she put on a whole heap of weight and just looked absolutely amazing.”
It was the happiest she had ever been, Perkins said.
“I just saw how much he loved my mum,” she said. “Tomi treated mum like she was an absolute queen.”
“She was the most loving and caring person you could ask for.”
If someone knocked on the door to ask for a cup of sugar, Cameron would offer them the whole bag, Perkins said.
“She’d take in waifs and strays, we had an open house policy.”
Her grandchildren have shared fond memories of going down to the beach and having fish and chips with her.
The day of the December 9 blaze has become “just kind of a blur”, Perkins said.
Pomana Marsh earlier told media his family were “deeply grateful for the support and kindness shown by the local community” following the tragic fire that claimed the life of his 79-year-old grandfather.
“We also want to acknowledge the authorities for their compassion, assistance and professionalism during this incredibly tragic time for our family,” Marsh told Stuff.
Perkins said they were told by officials the fire was thought to have started on the kitchen stove, but no official report has been released.
Tomi was farewelled at a service at Palmerston North’s Beauchamp Chapel on December 15, while Fiona’s ashes will be scattered at Lake Taupō near her favourite tree in the new year.
