Keith WHITTEN Obituary

In the twenty or so years since we first met, we got to know Keith very well. Well enough to know that we´ve lost more than just a good friend. Keith was always full of brilliantly steal-able tales about life in New Zealand and Ireland, and was ever a source of pithy truths on everything from sport, to politics, and to how to build the best fire (it´s upside down).

And with Margaret by his side, we knew that whenever we came to stay, we´d be treated generously to the very best food and wine, rambling late-night conversations, and a fair number of grubby hangovers. We never did finish our debates about which is better - Spain or Italy? But in future, whenever we travel, it´s good to know that Keith will be there in spirit, guiding us to the best restaurants and most authentic drinking holes.

Meanwhile, over two decades, it has been a joy to watch Connor and Tiernan growing up to become successful young men, due in good part to having such gentle, wise and encouraging parents. It´s comforting to know that Keith´s spirit lives on in them.

Keith took his time leaving us, but because he faced his illness with grace and good humour and shielded us from the worse of things, we were unprepared for his rapid decline. And with COVID keeping us from being at his memorial, these words are written with an aching regret that we´ve missed too many chances to express our love for him and to be of more help to Margaret and the boys.

But we also know that Keith would have been embarrassed by such concerns.

He lived a good life which has finished surrounded by people who loved him dearly, in Aisling, the grand and glorious home of his and Margaret´s dreams.

But we miss him already.

Tena koe te whanau katoa
Just wanted to send condolences and wish you and the Whitten family peace, comfort and courage at this time of sorrow.

I belong to a school reunion group of classmates from Thames South School & Thames High School (class of '63)

My earliest memories of Keith was back when we were 11/12 y o at Thames South School 1961/62 and Thames High School 1963/65.

Keith was a very clever, composed and good-natured classmate which was easy for all to see even back then. I wanted to say that I was lucky to know him.

Our lives parted way after High School in 1965
and we've not seen each other since, hence the sadness associated with this Obituary.

Ma te Atua koutou katoa e manaaki (God bless you all)

Keith was outstanding for his quiet professionalism and friendly personality. I had the good fortune to work with him at Fairfax for many years and know how much he will be missed.