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, John's 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. To watch a livestream of the service go to
lambandhayward.co.nz/obituaries and click on the link in John's obituary. A memorial service to celebrate John's life with family, friends, and colleagues will follow at a later date, with details to be advised.
Memories are forever. Rest in peace, John – you will be deeply missed

Published by The Press on Nov. 22, 2025.