
Thursday, 27 November 2025
Passed away peacefully, on November 15, 2025, at Christchurch Hospital, aged 83. Dearly loved husband and best friend of Beth for more than 60 years; treasured father and father-in-law of Phil and Louise, Ruth and Craig, and Andrew and Brianna; adored Grandad of Elle and Alec, Orlando, and Felix. Beloved son of the late Enid and John (Jack) Keoghan, son-in-law of the late Lawrie and Eleanor Hale, and cherished brother and brother-in-law of Mary-Rae and Malcolm, Elizabeth and John (deceased), Rona and Jim, Margaret and John, Robert and Cathy, Kathleen and Jim, and Alison. A dedicated Plant Scientist and conservationist, and proud Lincoln University alumnus, Johnâs gift was not only knowledge, but the generosity with which he shared it. Heartfelt thanks to the doctors, nurses, and staff at Christchurch Hospital, especially Ward 10, and Burwood Hospital, for their exceptional care. In lieu of flowers, donations to Hato Hone St John would be appreciated and may be made online at stjohn.org.nz. A private service and cremation will be held on Thursday, November 27, at 2.00pm.  A memorial service to celebrate Johnâs life with family, friends, and colleagues will follow at a later date, with details to be advised.
Memories are forever. Rest in peace, John â you will be deeply missed
John will be so dearly missed. I always appreciated his warmth, his steady presence, and the kindness he brought into every rehearsal and performance. It was a privilege to know him and to make music alongside him. Rest peacefully, John.Shannon-Aimee Bradley
Sorry to hear of Johnâs passing . Fond old memories of when your family lived in a we cottage. On Ellesmere road ladbrooks . Best wishes to all of your family love Keith and Vanessa Shadbolt.Keith / Vanessa Shadbolt
Beth and Family. I have just watched John's warm and tender funeral service. Thank you for making it available on-line. The words and music were clearly chosen with love. I always enjoyed a catch-up with John. It was a 'catch up' with what he had being doing and knew. It seems a long time since Don McClatchy encouraged me to join him in babysitting for you when you lived in Ladbooks (because there always nice cookies waiting).Alastair Nicol
With much love to the whole Keoghan clan. John always had a wry comment and a twinkle in his eye. We had some lovely chats over the years. Big loves from our clan to yours. Aroha -- Matt & Andi (Finn, Isaac and Patch)Matt & Andi Gould
To the Keoghan family, So very sorry for your loss. Ron and I spent many enjoyable hours at Matarangi discussing interesting topics with John . His intellect obvious on a variety of subjects. We will certainly miss his company as will his family. Love to you all Ron & PamPam Rodrigues
On behalf of the Hardie family in Canada, I am sending our deepest love and condolences on the loss of this wonderful man. Whether in Antigua, Quebec or New Zealand, John always shared such warmth and kindness. I personally will always remember how John and Beth welcomed me on my visit to New Zealand, making me feel so loved and at home even though we had not seen each other since I was 9 months old... He enthusiastically toured me around gardens and plants, and patiently tried to help me understand cricket. Beth, Philip, Ruth and Andrew you are all in our hearts and thoughts, and we are joining you in spirit as we remember with joy your beloved John. With love from Charlotte (and John, Annick, Patricia and David)Charlotte Hardie
Every life deserves to be honoured with care, and every family deserves the opportunity to come together, share stories, and say goodbye in a way that feels right for them. Whether you've just lost someone you love or are thinking about planning ahead, we're here to listen, guide, and support you â any time of day or night.
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