13 Entries
Jason Matapula
March 1, 2026
My memory of Mr Paddy was meeting him at my brothers place in Otara at the time.
And a really lovely Man to converse with, and it reminded me of the men that i remember growing up in NZ.
That generation and era was a childhood memory of a country that i remember what once was, and maybe slowly dissapearing i miss those kind of Kiwi blokes.
And the rugby games that were the biggest game in Aoteroa at the time.
I also remember Dean attendding my mothers funeral service and it said alot about the kind of Man he is.
On behalf of myself and my sister Mata Simpson, lots of love to all the Paddy Whanau.
Vicki Neilson
February 21, 2026
I have only just learned of Dean´s passing, and after watching his beautiful and deeply moving Celebration of Life service online, my heart is full. What an extraordinary farewell for an extraordinary man. His children spoke with such grace, courage, and heartfelt emotion-Dean would have been immensely proud of each of you.
My memories of the time I spent with the Paddy family as the children´s nanny-six little ones under the age of nine!-remain as vivid today as they were 50 years ago. We had some absolutely fabulous times together. Too many to recount here, but each moment still makes me smile. The joy Dean had for life, and the love he held for his family and friends, was truly remarkable. It was impossible not to feel uplifted in his presence.
To Bec, Sacha, Saffy, Josh, Tiff, Luke, and Nathan-sending all my love to you. You are forever in my heart.
God speed, Dean. And remember... they play Union in Heaven, my dear friend.
Arohanui,
Vicki (Neilson)
O´Hara Family
February 13, 2026
Dean!!what a beautiful man you are. Firstly knowing your daughters who are dear friends and then having the privilege of meeting you. Everything wonderful about Saff and Beks makes perfect sense once meeting you. The barman at your service today asked me if I was family, I had to pause for a moment before saying `no´ because you made everyone feel like family. We are very lucky to have attended a few of the Paddy Christmas parties and a wisteria party- everyone trying to get to you for a chat. Our kids when young, even asked if perhaps you were their Poppa too. Rest well xxxx
Deb Campbell (nee Cole)
February 12, 2026
In life we meet many people, some come and go, others stick in your mind forever and Dean was one of those people. For those of us lucky enough to work with him at Keith Nelsons in the 80s and 90s I think I can speak for everyone in saying Dean was super fun, so caring, and so invested in each of us and our life decisions. We had many huge nights out in the "Paddy Wagon" we worked hard and played hard. I feel honoured to have spent those years with Dean and all of the years that followed up until now learning about his life journey and getting one of his awesome cuddles every now and then. I hope his journey on the other side is as full as his life on this side. My love to all of his family xox

Sacha Paddy
February 11, 2026
For Livestream link for Dean's funeral and to share memories and photos please go to https://www.online-tribute.com/DeanPaddy
Vikki Nelson
February 5, 2026
I was so privileged to have Dean not only as a family friend but a mentor in my first year as a dentist. A man whom taught me more than just dentistry he showed me how to treat patients as if they were family
A true gentleman who always treated every person like they were the most impt person in the room
An amazingly positive person who I will miss but have had the privilege to know and learn from
Much love to all of you
Unfortunately I will be in Dunedin taking my daughter back to university on Friday so will miss Deans farewell ... in his honor I will definitely have a drink for him on Friday at the University grounds where he and dad played many games
Clive Woodworth
February 5, 2026
I would not have expected to outlive Deano He was so full of life at all times. Fond memory of Deano leading our London NZ rugby team onto Twickenham to play the final of the 1985 Golden Oldies . Vale Deano
Neal Ghoshal
February 5, 2026
Huge aroha, love and gratitude to you Dean and all that you have meant to me - your inclusiveness and welcoming to me into the amazing Paddy family. We connected so much through music, so many singalongs, epic wisteria parties, just so many fun, loving times.
You will be forever remembered with love. May you be singing with the stars.
Dan,Sue, Pat and Thomas Greig
February 3, 2026
The kindest and most thoughtful man, his door and heart was always open and his home could always take one more guest.
From long blacks to All Blacks, the very best birthdays to the sleepier slower days, the best celebrations were with you sweet Dean!
Thank you for being the best friend, uncle and godfather, and for sharing your delightful sparkle. And thank you to the Paddys for sharing your dad with the world.
Love the Greigs.
robbie hill
February 2, 2026
Dean was coaching LNZ 1XV when I was playing for them 1977/78 seasons . He was a great coach and had a way with him that endeared players to go the extra yard . We had a great bunch of kiwis who he molded into a winning unit and have kept in contact through Droops over past 4 decades. Condolences to Dean`s family on his passing
Charlie Dickens
February 2, 2026
The class of 67 at the Otago Dental School was kindly remembered by the staff for its warmth, cohesion and kindness. As such, Dean was a huge influence.
Murray brennan
February 2, 2026
life long friend , godfather of my only daughter, a special person , who always gave more than he ever took- who made better all those he touched,
Tony McCallum
February 2, 2026
Most heartfelt sympathy with condolences to the family of Deano.Regret unable to be with you Feb 13, except in wonderful thoughts and memories, where he will be soundly toasted.
Dunedin-Auckland-London-Auckland...HE just wouldnot stop.Wisteria Parties will never be forgotten.
Thank you Dean for the fun and friendship and your` never give in syndrome'.
Haere haere haere ra
Aroha.
Rawinia and A.B.
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