The New Zealand football community is mourning the sad passing of ‘club legend’ and a ‘community man’ Grant McKeen, who tragically died while playing the sport he loved at the weekend.
Mr McKeen 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 had attended a blessing at the park.
A police iwi liaison officer was also in attendance, while 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
In his obituary, Mr McKeen was described as a ‘devoted family man’ and a ‘hero dad’ and a ‘deeply loved partner’.
‘Devoted to his family, a passionate, generous and supportive community man. Loved by his family and friends. A true giver in life,’ his obituary read.
His club, Waterside Karori, published a tribute to Mr McKeen on Facebook, speaking of the incredible impact he had on the club in multiple capacities.
‘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
‘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 to Mr McKeen.
‘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.’
