

Dean Carleton Paddy
Kua hinga te tōtara o Te Waonui a Tāne
The tōtara in the great forest of Tāne has fallen
Obituary Notice
We are deeply saddened to announce that Dean passed away peacefully on 28 January 2026. A beloved taonga within his family, friends and the wider community, Dean upheld his passionate love for life right until the end.
Dean is survived by his seven children and many grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Although he was only at the Elizabeth Knox Home for a short while, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to the staff there for their care and kindness.
Please join us for a celebration of Dean's life on Friday 13th February at 11am, at The Grand Hall, Eden Park, Walters Road, Gate C. In lieu of flowers, please send a donation to Blind Low Vision NZ.
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March 27, 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.
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.
February 22, 2026
My deepest condolences. I was only a child when I met Mr Paddy and his wonderful family. We lived in Slough but used to go to the annual Slough Dolphin summer parties at the Paddy's house at Boveney. I have wonderful memories of running round the gardens into the night and then getting the courage to venture into the old room above the old hall with the four poster bed. That and constant all black videos playing. Happy times and I wish the family well. I will never forget those times and still think of them when walking past the house along the rowing lake path (that was not there back in the 80's)
February 16, 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.
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.
February 16, 2026
Poppa Dean was such a huge part of my life growing up. He was always there for me, cheering me on through every milestone and celebrating every school achievement like it was the biggest win in the world. No matter what I did, Poppa made sure I felt proud, supported, and deeply loved. As I got older, he welcomed my partner with open arms and made him feel like he had always been part of the Paddy family. That’s just who Poppa was — loving, inclusive, and full of heart. He absolutely adored my three children, and it means so much to me that I was able to name one after him. I feel so blessed knowing I’m raising Dean’s greats, and that his legacy lives on through them. I am so incredibly proud to be his granddaughter — that will forever be one of my greatest honours. He will be missed more than words can ever say, but my boys will always remember their Poppa and the love he gave us all 🤍
Love you poppa x
Love you poppa x



February 13, 2026
Dean was such a wonderful man he will be sadly missed by so many family and friends. Rest In Peace dear Friend.
February 13, 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
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
February 13, 2026
Dear Family, what a wonderful celebration of the life of a wonderful father and man. Your memories were each special and individual.
Dad was the most hospitable person I have ever known. It was open house at Kingseat, Boveney Court and Landscape Road. In 1980 Helen and I stayed in the Ghost Room at Boveney Court, when you all were little. I returned in 1984 with the Auckland University Old Blues team and supporters. There was food and drink for over thirty people and it kept coming! There was music of course, in the big hall, Dad leading the singing of Dan Hills big hit " Sometimes When We Touch", he led loudly, tunefully and he knew the lyrics. The song was on repeat and played a dozen times! He came over to Dublin to join the tour. There was much confusion at his hotel. The receptionist insisted they did not have a guest named Dean Paddy, they did have a Paddy Dean.
The Wisteria parties were an annual event for so many. Often the only time we met someone in a year, was at that party, with Bob Burnes and the Harrop Brothers playing away.
The last time I saw Dad was when he was in Auckland hospital. As my shadow passed the end of the bed, he called "who is this" when I said my name, his face lit up with that lovely big smile, and so did mine. We had a good time discussing both families, politics, sport, rugby. I regret I did not get to visit him in Elizabeth Knox.
Something I learnt at the Celebration was Dads love of birds and birdsong. We have a holiday home at Pauanui, and are blessed with, Tuis, Kereru, a singing thrush and finch in the big old Pohutukawa. Every time a bird is singing I will think of Dean
He gave you all such love, which you all returned in spades!
With love Rob and Helen XXXXXXX
Dad was the most hospitable person I have ever known. It was open house at Kingseat, Boveney Court and Landscape Road. In 1980 Helen and I stayed in the Ghost Room at Boveney Court, when you all were little. I returned in 1984 with the Auckland University Old Blues team and supporters. There was food and drink for over thirty people and it kept coming! There was music of course, in the big hall, Dad leading the singing of Dan Hills big hit " Sometimes When We Touch", he led loudly, tunefully and he knew the lyrics. The song was on repeat and played a dozen times! He came over to Dublin to join the tour. There was much confusion at his hotel. The receptionist insisted they did not have a guest named Dean Paddy, they did have a Paddy Dean.
The Wisteria parties were an annual event for so many. Often the only time we met someone in a year, was at that party, with Bob Burnes and the Harrop Brothers playing away.
The last time I saw Dad was when he was in Auckland hospital. As my shadow passed the end of the bed, he called "who is this" when I said my name, his face lit up with that lovely big smile, and so did mine. We had a good time discussing both families, politics, sport, rugby. I regret I did not get to visit him in Elizabeth Knox.
Something I learnt at the Celebration was Dads love of birds and birdsong. We have a holiday home at Pauanui, and are blessed with, Tuis, Kereru, a singing thrush and finch in the big old Pohutukawa. Every time a bird is singing I will think of Dean
He gave you all such love, which you all returned in spades!
With love Rob and Helen XXXXXXX
February 12, 2026
Farewell dearest Dean.
I hold in my heart the time shared on the Mondays outside school; the parties and the chats over the cup of teas. We, as a family, count ourselves blessed to have your whanau in our lives.
The songs of birds will forever be the way I keep you in my heart.
I hold in my heart the time shared on the Mondays outside school; the parties and the chats over the cup of teas. We, as a family, count ourselves blessed to have your whanau in our lives.
The songs of birds will forever be the way I keep you in my heart.

February 12, 2026
Dean was a dear friend and mentor.
I met Dean through Roi when Roi and I were flatting on Peary Road in Mt Eden. I have many cherished memories — time spent together on his wonderful deck, heading to the Boxing Day races, and even a special stint celebrating his birthday at the Chepstow Races in Wales with some of his friends and family.
I will always remember the legendary Wisteria parties. I was lucky enough to meet and spend time with his wonderful whānau, and to share moments in his beautiful garden. Dean was a fabulous host and a great storyteller; he created such a warm and welcoming home. He comforted me when I had my heart broken for the very first time. He had a way of making everyone he met feel special and seen. There are so many songs I hear and instantly think of him especially Here Comes the Sun.
I feel incredibly grateful to have known you, Dean Paddy.
I am sending all my love to the Paddy whānau and dear friends today.
Fiona E. N. Macfarlane
I met Dean through Roi when Roi and I were flatting on Peary Road in Mt Eden. I have many cherished memories — time spent together on his wonderful deck, heading to the Boxing Day races, and even a special stint celebrating his birthday at the Chepstow Races in Wales with some of his friends and family.
I will always remember the legendary Wisteria parties. I was lucky enough to meet and spend time with his wonderful whānau, and to share moments in his beautiful garden. Dean was a fabulous host and a great storyteller; he created such a warm and welcoming home. He comforted me when I had my heart broken for the very first time. He had a way of making everyone he met feel special and seen. There are so many songs I hear and instantly think of him especially Here Comes the Sun.
I feel incredibly grateful to have known you, Dean Paddy.
I am sending all my love to the Paddy whānau and dear friends today.
Fiona E. N. Macfarlane
February 12, 2026
Rest in peace, Poppa Dean. Family isn't always just about blood; it’s about who shows up. Dean, you showed up for Kheal and me every single day—through every phone call, email, and milestone. You were a rock for us and a devoted Poppa to Kheal.
I’ll always treasure the great connection we had; our chats and your constant check-ins meant the world to me. I am so grateful for the years of support and for the way your family always kept the door open for us. We are going to miss your updates and your steady support more than words can say.
With love. Alofa tele atu, Jolene
I’ll always treasure the great connection we had; our chats and your constant check-ins meant the world to me. I am so grateful for the years of support and for the way your family always kept the door open for us. We are going to miss your updates and your steady support more than words can say.
With love. Alofa tele atu, Jolene
February 12, 2026
It all started @ Slough Dolphins swimming club, adult & children friendships, parties, sleepovers & lots of animals @ Boveney. Adventures @ the farm house in Wales, fab holidays in Spain & Dean the Leader of all our adventures. The best childhood all us kids could ever ask for. Thanx for the wonderful memories Dean XXX
February 11, 2026
So many amazing memories of Dean it’s hard to pick just one. I first met Dean in Boveney Court UK in 1983 at an Allstars party. Chris told me I’d love him instantly and indeed I did. As a young newcomer to the group (and highly competitive games) I was instantly welcomed and embraced by Dean and the whole Paddy clan. We would later become neighbors in Epsom and spend many many more happy times together with all of our kids in toe especially race days at Auckland & Pukekohe. Throughout the years Dean came to play an important role in our family’s life as we navigated Chris’ health difficulties. He was a dear friend and support for me and our two sons through some very difficult times and we’re forever grateful for that. He was also a lot of fun and always up for a sing song even when he became a tee totaler and the rest of us were ‘Shickered’. That’s true strength of character man. Despite difficult personal times and challenges he still had the biggest heart and always looked out for others in need. He truly was loved dearly. Will miss you Deano but feel thankful for all the special memories we have. Deepest condolences to all of the children grandchildren and wider whanau. Thinking of you at this time and hope you can be comforted by the love and legacy he’s left behind. Sending aroha to you all. Trish xx

February 10, 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,
February 10, 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.
February 10, 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
February 10, 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.
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.
February 10, 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
February 10, 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
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
February 10, 2026
From David and Brenda Service...
My memories of Dean go back to university rugby; whether playing with him or against him, he was always the same: strong, supportive, warm, and friendly. My parents used to host an annual party in Maori Hill for the university players, and they loved that group of men—just as Dean loved Harold and Tephany.
My parents felt particularly lucky when Harold and Tephany came out to Boveney Court and spent those six or seven months with us. Harold and Dean got on famously; Harold just thrived in that environment. And what an environment it was! Boveney Court was so special—a bit like a big commune with the Australian dentists, Libby and Earle, all of us, and all the children. Those three years were simply wonderful, even more so with our daughter being born in Eton.
Dean was also incredibly forgiving. I remember when he discovered a huge marijuana crop mysteriously growing all the way to the roof of the chook house; he managed to be remarkably "forgetful" as to who might have actually planted it there!
The parties were legendary. I can still picture that huge fireplace in the big hall and the Sunday roasts in the big kitchen, where Dean would encourage Vicky to sing. Someone would put on "Sometimes When We Touch" by Dan Hill, and often by the very first line, Dean would throw his arms open, look to the sky, and burst into song with those twinkly eyes and that huge, unmistakable voice.
Then there were the Friday night drinks at the High Wycombe practice. I remember one night in particular where the music stayed on and Dean had the Beatles song "Hey Jude"—the long version, of course—playing on a loop, over and over.
But perhaps the most memorable night was the Black Tie dinner Libby and Earle hosted, where Earle’s main contribution was filling the bathtub with champagne and ice. During the meal, Dean stood up and announced he was disappointed that no one was eating the fruit salad Libby had prepared. He admonished the group and promptly upended the large fruit salad over his own head! There he stood, dripping in fruit, when—almost instantly—he remembered they had a new babysitter starting that night.
He suddenly cried out, "Holy hell, I've got to go and relieve the new babysitter!" and raced out the door to the house 50 meters away. We followed, a bit breathless, to find the babysitter had sensibly locked the door. When she nervously answered the heavy knocker, she was met by this man with wild, tousled hair and what looked like blood dripping down his face. It was, of course, just the boysenberry juice and the berries themselves settled in his curls. We’re still not sure if that poor girl ever came back!
Dean did love a good Sunday roast, too. I’ll never forget the time he bought a beautiful large leg of hogget from the butcher in Eton Wick. Your cocker spaniel, Thomas, was a hungry lad and managed to snatch it right off the kitchen table (it may have been the Kirtons' kitchen!). The last we saw of them, Thomas was legging it toward the orchard with the roast in his mouth and Dean was chasing him madly, shouting, "I'm gonna kill that bloody Thomas!"
To me, Dean represented warmth, love, and loyalty. He had a knack for getting people behind him and always looked after the vulnerable. Earle mentioned to me that when they were at university, Dean decided to stand for President of the dental school and no one stood against him because he was simply too popular. It was a true pleasure knowing him and the whole Paddy family; those years at Boveney Court will never be forgotten.
With love,
David and Brenda
My memories of Dean go back to university rugby; whether playing with him or against him, he was always the same: strong, supportive, warm, and friendly. My parents used to host an annual party in Maori Hill for the university players, and they loved that group of men—just as Dean loved Harold and Tephany.
My parents felt particularly lucky when Harold and Tephany came out to Boveney Court and spent those six or seven months with us. Harold and Dean got on famously; Harold just thrived in that environment. And what an environment it was! Boveney Court was so special—a bit like a big commune with the Australian dentists, Libby and Earle, all of us, and all the children. Those three years were simply wonderful, even more so with our daughter being born in Eton.
Dean was also incredibly forgiving. I remember when he discovered a huge marijuana crop mysteriously growing all the way to the roof of the chook house; he managed to be remarkably "forgetful" as to who might have actually planted it there!
The parties were legendary. I can still picture that huge fireplace in the big hall and the Sunday roasts in the big kitchen, where Dean would encourage Vicky to sing. Someone would put on "Sometimes When We Touch" by Dan Hill, and often by the very first line, Dean would throw his arms open, look to the sky, and burst into song with those twinkly eyes and that huge, unmistakable voice.
Then there were the Friday night drinks at the High Wycombe practice. I remember one night in particular where the music stayed on and Dean had the Beatles song "Hey Jude"—the long version, of course—playing on a loop, over and over.
But perhaps the most memorable night was the Black Tie dinner Libby and Earle hosted, where Earle’s main contribution was filling the bathtub with champagne and ice. During the meal, Dean stood up and announced he was disappointed that no one was eating the fruit salad Libby had prepared. He admonished the group and promptly upended the large fruit salad over his own head! There he stood, dripping in fruit, when—almost instantly—he remembered they had a new babysitter starting that night.
He suddenly cried out, "Holy hell, I've got to go and relieve the new babysitter!" and raced out the door to the house 50 meters away. We followed, a bit breathless, to find the babysitter had sensibly locked the door. When she nervously answered the heavy knocker, she was met by this man with wild, tousled hair and what looked like blood dripping down his face. It was, of course, just the boysenberry juice and the berries themselves settled in his curls. We’re still not sure if that poor girl ever came back!
Dean did love a good Sunday roast, too. I’ll never forget the time he bought a beautiful large leg of hogget from the butcher in Eton Wick. Your cocker spaniel, Thomas, was a hungry lad and managed to snatch it right off the kitchen table (it may have been the Kirtons' kitchen!). The last we saw of them, Thomas was legging it toward the orchard with the roast in his mouth and Dean was chasing him madly, shouting, "I'm gonna kill that bloody Thomas!"
To me, Dean represented warmth, love, and loyalty. He had a knack for getting people behind him and always looked after the vulnerable. Earle mentioned to me that when they were at university, Dean decided to stand for President of the dental school and no one stood against him because he was simply too popular. It was a true pleasure knowing him and the whole Paddy family; those years at Boveney Court will never be forgotten.
With love,
David and Brenda
February 4, 2026
Such an interesting and warm man. Appreciate his friendship with my Father Chris Lorigan. I’ve a few good memories of uncle Dean Paddy. The smile, the wit and the heart. RIP
February 3, 2026
RIP Dean Paddy.
We met Dean and later his family while on a transfer to the UK with my company in 1976. We arrived in June and left in September 3 years later.
I met Dean when I visited the London New Zealand Rugby Club. He was a superb coach and I enjoyed the challenges he set the team. He believed that were were one of the best teams in London but it was impossible in those days to get a fixture with the top teams.
Dean did not give up, he challenged us to win and keep winning.
Dean would hold functions in his home and would invite not just the players but their families and our supporters. Boveney Court became a place we remembered fondly.
Later after our return to New Zealand, Dean was a prime mover in organising re-unions for as many of the past players we could locate. They were always organised against seeing an All Black game in Auckland and of course a few drinks at the Barbarians Club afterwards.
Condolences to Rebeckah and the rest of Dean's family
Anton and Teresa Ferrari and family
We met Dean and later his family while on a transfer to the UK with my company in 1976. We arrived in June and left in September 3 years later.
I met Dean when I visited the London New Zealand Rugby Club. He was a superb coach and I enjoyed the challenges he set the team. He believed that were were one of the best teams in London but it was impossible in those days to get a fixture with the top teams.
Dean did not give up, he challenged us to win and keep winning.
Dean would hold functions in his home and would invite not just the players but their families and our supporters. Boveney Court became a place we remembered fondly.
Later after our return to New Zealand, Dean was a prime mover in organising re-unions for as many of the past players we could locate. They were always organised against seeing an All Black game in Auckland and of course a few drinks at the Barbarians Club afterwards.
Condolences to Rebeckah and the rest of Dean's family
Anton and Teresa Ferrari and family
February 3, 2026
Stand
Together
Magic 7
The best father
A son could ask for. My name is? LukePaddy
Together
Magic 7
The best father
A son could ask for. My name is? LukePaddy
January 31, 2026
Kia ora Dean - huge aroha, love and gratitude to you 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.
You will be forever remembered with love. May you be singing with the stars.

Service
PLEASE JOIN US FOR A CELEBRATION OF DEAN PADDY.
We will come together to remember and pay tribute to Dean. While we mourn the loss of our dear father and poppa, we will also cherish the moments shared and the joy brought into our lives.
Your presence would mean a great deal to us during this time of remembrance and reflection.
The funeral will be from 11am til about 1pm, followed by refreshments and a more informal time together at the Barbarians Club Rooms from about 1pm, which is on level 6, Eden Park.
We will come together to remember and pay tribute to Dean. While we mourn the loss of our dear father and poppa, we will also cherish the moments shared and the joy brought into our lives.
Your presence would mean a great deal to us during this time of remembrance and reflection.
The funeral will be from 11am til about 1pm, followed by refreshments and a more informal time together at the Barbarians Club Rooms from about 1pm, which is on level 6, Eden Park.
Dean Paddy'S Funeral
Te Pā, Grand Hall, Eden Park
Walters Road, Kingsland
(Gate B & C)
Auckland 1024
Walters Road, Kingsland
(Gate B & C)
Auckland 1024
Friday 13th February 2026
11am - 1pm.
Followed by refreshments and a more informal time together at the Barbarians Club Rooms from about 1pm, which is on level 6, Eden Park.
11am - 1pm.
Followed by refreshments and a more informal time together at the Barbarians Club Rooms from about 1pm, which is on level 6, Eden Park.
Virtual event
Livestream link -https://eternal.nz/live/deanpaddy
Donate
In honor of our beloved Dean, we invite you to contribute to a cause that was near and dear to his heart - BLIND LOW VISION NZ. Any generous donation will serve as a meaningful tribute, perpetuating the spirit of Dean by supporting a meaningful cause.
Together, let us continue the legacy of kindness and inclusiveness that Dean embodied throughout his life.
You can donate here: https://fundraise.blindlowvision.org.nz/donate
Together, let us continue the legacy of kindness and inclusiveness that Dean embodied throughout his life.
You can donate here: https://fundraise.blindlowvision.org.nz/donate

