Grant McKeen (pictured) tragically passed away during a football match on Saturday
Share this @internewscast.com

The New Zealand football community is mourning the passing of ‘club legend’ and ‘community man’ Grant McKeen. 

Mr Mckeen tragically died during a match on Saturday at Wakefield park, in Island Bay.

The footballer, who played for Waterside Karori AFC, leaves behind his parents, Sheryl and Rob, partner Marissa and son Vincent.

Members of the Waterside Karori Football Club and Wellington City Council officials have since attended a blessing at the park.

A police iwi liaison officer was also in attendance. The park will not be taking any match bookings until May 12.

Tributes have been paid to the footballer by many from the Kiwi footballing community following his sudden passing.

Grant McKeen (pictured) tragically passed away during a football match on Saturday

Grant McKeen (pictured) tragically passed away during a football match on Saturday 

In his obituary, Mr. McKeen is remembered as a ‘dedicated family man’, a ‘heroic father’, and a ‘deeply cherished partner’. It mentions that he passed away while ‘engaging in the sport he adored’.

‘Committed to his family, a passionate and benevolent member of the community. Adored by family and friends. A true giver in life,’ his obituary stated.

His club, Waterside Karori, shared a tribute on Facebook, highlighting the significant influence he had on the club in various roles.

‘As many of you will have heard, Grant McKeen – one of our true club legends – passed away on Saturday,’ the statement read.

‘Grant was a huge presence within the club for many years, as a player, executive committee member, sponsor, and supporter of all grades of football. We are all devastated by Grant’s passing and our thoughts are with his wife Marissa and son Vincent, as well as his teammates and all of his wide group of friends and colleagues.’

Mr McKeen was also a long-standing supporter and season-ticket holder of A-League side, Wellington Phoenix.

‘The footy club also issued their deep condolences to his family, adding that there would be a moment’s applause in the 47th minute of their match on Sunday against Perth Glory,’ Wellington Phoenix wrote.

‘We are deeply saddened by the sudden passing of Grant McKeen, a long-time Wellington Phoenix season ticket holder, Waterside Karori club legend, and a true servant of the game.

Tributes are being paid to the Waterside Karori FC 'club legend' who is also a lifelong Wellington Phoenix supporter

Tributes are being paid to the Waterside Karori FC ‘club legend’ who is also a lifelong Wellington Phoenix supporter

‘Grant was a passionate supporter, junior football leader, and beloved member of the Wharfies Masters 2 side.

‘Our thoughts are with his family and the wider football community.’

Other local footy clubs have been sending their condolences to Mr McKeen’s family.

‘The Wainuiomata Football Community send their love and thoughts to Grant’s whanau, friends and the whole of the football community at Waterside Karori during this time. R.I.P Grant,’ Wainuiomata FC wrote on Facebook.

The Island Bay United Association Football Club wrote: ‘Please know that our thoughts are with Grant’s family, friends, and everyone at Waterside Karori during this difficult time.’

Mr McKeen’s employers, Fusion 5, also paid tribute.

‘One of the key contributors to our transformation has been Grant McKeen, who passed away suddenly over the weekend,’ Fusion 5 wrote.’Grant and his IntegrationWorks team joined Fusion5 last year and have been influential in evolving our business to the one it is today.’

Share this @internewscast.com
You May Also Like

Albanese Meets Trump in the US: Key Highlights and Expectations

As Anthony Albanese makes his slightly trepidatious return to the White House…

Five Essential Takeaways from the Trump-Albanese Summit

Key Points Donald Trump and Anthony Albanese signed a significant rare earth…
Two sunscreens pulled off shelves amid SPF concerns - Outside Beauty & Skincare SPF 50+ Mineral Primer and Salus SPF 50+ Daily Facial Sunscreen

Two Popular Sunscreens Recalled Due to SPF Accuracy Issues

A further two sunscreens have been pulled from shelves amid sun protection…

Police Union Leader Compares Melbourne Protest to Turbulent 1970s Northern Ireland

Victoria Police say they are “appalled” after violent protests in Melbourne resulted…
Logan hospital

Authorities Probe Mysterious Rat Poison Incident After Multiple Hospitalizations

Authorities in Queensland’s southeast are collaborating with health officials to identify the…
Nicole Kidman is opening up 'taking risks' and the mistakes she has made in a new interview with with Vogue published Wednesday - in the midst of a divorce from longtime husband Keith Urban

Nicole Kidman Reflects on Risk-Taking and Past Missteps Amid Keith Urban Divorce

Nicole Kidman recently sat down with Vogue for an interview released on…
Another hostage's body returned after Israeli strikes on Gaza

Body of Hostage Repatriated Following Israeli Airstrikes on Gaza

Israeli police said a coffin carrying the apparent remains of a deceased…

Hamas Returns Body of Israeli Hostage in Latest Diplomatic Development

Israel has confirmed it has received the remains of another Gaza hostage…
Cute Little Caucasian Newborn Baby Lying in Bassinet in a Maternity Hospital. Portrait of a Tiny Playful and Energetic Child with a Name ID Tag on the Leg. Healthcare, Pregnancy and Motherhood Concept

Controversy Strikes: Australian Birthing Influencer Faces Promotion Ban – What It Means for Online Advocacy

An Australian birthing influencer has been barred from sharing her perspectives and…
Scott Pendlebury of the Magpies.

AFL Star Scott Pendlebury Pursues Legal Action Over Missing $2.1 Million Funds

AFL luminary Scott Pendlebury has initiated legal proceedings against his former manager,…

Unveiling the Power of Rare Earth Minerals: Why Donald Trump Has His Eyes on Australia’s Hidden Treasure

Australia has some of the richest deposits of mineral sands and rare…
Chilling warning over 3D-printed guns flooding Australia amid crackdown

Rising Threat: Surge of 3D-Printed Firearms in Australia Sparks Urgent Crackdown

Authorities have issued a stern warning about the “real threat” posed by…