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Finlay MACKENZIE Obituary

MACKENZIE, Finlay Simon
(Simon). - On July 4, 2013, unexpectedly in Auckland. He is deeply missed by his fianc Mel and his daughter Sarah and Laura. Our loss is equally shared by his parents Fin & Barbara Mackenzie, sister Jane and her children Fionnuala, Hugh, and Niamh, brother, Gerald & Basia and their children Molly and Stella. He remains in our hearts as he does with extended family, close friends who he considered as family, and Ann his ex-wife (mother of Sarah and Laura). He will always be missed. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Royal Forest & Bird Protection Society, PO Box 631 Wellington 6140 would be appreciated or may be left at the service. A service to celebrate Simon's life will be held in the Coast Community Church, 57 Hinemoa St, Paraparaumu on Saturday July 13, at 11:00am followed by private cremation at Kaitawa Crematorium.
Waikanae Funeral Home
FDANZ Tel 04 2936844
Published by Dominion Post on Jul. 8, 2013.

Memories and Condolences
for Finlay MACKENZIE

Sponsored by Gerald (AKA - Sprog) Simon's little brother.

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64 Entries

Jennie Hereford

November 24, 2024

No you don't fade from our memories kiddo. You came into conversation the other day and I'd think you would laugh at how we have all aged. We still reminisce with you in our stories and wish we could hear your laughter just one more time.

Bill Harpur

October 24, 2024

I went to school with Simon at Heaton Intermediate and Chch Boys High back in the 70's. I would like to say we were good friends, even to the extent that (I have vivid memories of this) Simon's family invited me to join them one school holidays at their holiday home at Le Bons Bay. We spent the entire time wandering the hills and fields, using our hockey sticks as pretend Bren guns setting up defensive positions to keep the Gerries away. We were young and times were simpler.

Time goes by, as it does. Simon and I lost contact after we left school, I thought about him from time to time as you do when you look back on your life and the people you knew. I was truly saddened to hear he had passed and I feel terrible that I didn't know until now, 11 odd years after he left us.

Simon was a unique human being, I have nothing but warm and fond memories of him that I will cherish as long as I am able My heart goes out to his family.

Nikki Matthews

July 4, 2022

Nine years since you left this earth Simon
We miss you still after all this time
Gosh I wish I had got a photo of you at my front door over 40 years ago when you matched a frilly dress with gum boots for a party where that seemed appropriate attire
RIP Simon

July 28, 2019

Hullo beautiful Simon, we used your frypan last night and Rob said What a mighty fine frypan it is and I said yes came from a mighty fine person too. Still to be remembered, always in our hearts J xx

Mel Holland

July 5, 2018

Hey Si
5 years! Thank you for dropping by this week. I am sure it was you with what happened.
Came across a pile of photos - and saved them back to my phone. Seeing you through my eyes (because I took the photos) again was great. Our spirits and souls are still intertwined. You called me your soulmate - the one that you found at long last. We'd planned to spend forever together'.
Wonderful to have your presence with me again.
Till next time.
Melly

Chris Stevenson

July 5, 2018

Hey Simon,

Five years down the track (unbelievable!!) and I still keep hearing Pink Floyd - it's never too frequent, the memories of Hawdon Valley, Le Bons Bay, Spa pool parties, Standard 10 cars and the many others that followed later, that fantastic deep chortle which was your totally unique and distinguished laugh, the drinks , our friends, our loved ones, the fun and the feasts - don't get me started, but who's idea was it to order one of everything on the menu from nearly every restaurant we went to. Not forgetting the ski trips, the motorbike touring - the tramping, and all of it in so many fantastic places throughout New Zealand. Not to mention your zany and wicked sense of humour, your optimistic outlook on life which impressed so many...... including me! None of it would have been the same without you. No wonder we all still remember you for all these incredible acts of love and friendship.

I learnt how to live life better through you, and I will never, ever forget that.
Thanks again, my friend.

Cheers, beers and laughs,
Your mate,
Chris

Mel Holland

May 15, 2017

Hey Simon.
Still hardly a day goes by without me thinking and of you. I catch myself sending thoughts to you - updates of news, things which have changed. Part of you is still always with me. It always will be.
You are not forgotten.
So many things still to say to you.
Came across a lot of your old emails to me tonight. Your words of love to me. Your words of our future. Your words of support - for me and for us.
You are still loved.
Melly

Jennie Hereford

October 16, 2016

Hullo old friend, been thinking of you alot as we went to lunch at one of the places you took me and I could only smile at that memory. You are still very much in our thoughts and alot of people still mention your name. Go well my friend. Love always, Jennie xx

August 1, 2016

Another year gone by and even now you remain in our thoughts often. Lots of changes over the years my friend, but the warmth you gave us still has a huge impact. Miss your smile and your huge hugs and laughter. Hope they have nice wine and good food where you are. Always in our hearts.
Jennie and Rob

October 14, 2015

Yes it was always on the stereo when you visited in Rotorua. Pink Floyd was one Video you would put on the TV. Like Mel I too think of you at various occasions and happenings, just shows what impact you made on all our lives. Sometimes you wonder why, and then you realise the answer is "because".

Mel Holland

October 14, 2015

Pink Floyd will never be the same for any of us. There isn't a day that goes by that you are not in my thoughts Simon. I catch myself chatting to you about all manner of things. You became part of me a long time ago. You remain with me still. Love you always.
Wish (Pink Floud) was the track on continuous loop the last time we were together - a heartbreaking time for me as it was your final farewell. Now I hear the track and it is just about you. Always will be.

Chris Stevenson

October 13, 2015

Like Dave's comment below - the same thing happens to me as well. Every time I hear Pink Floyd - the last time it was "Shine On You Crazy Diamond", I always think of you Simon.

Still miss you heaps.

I can still hear your laugh.

David Lake

October 11, 2015

Been playing Pink Floyd's "Wish You Were Here", a song you introduced me to and one I immediately loved. Just thinking about you Simon...

Jennie Hereford

July 8, 2015

Wow yet another year gone by since we lost you and you still remain strongly in our hearts and thoughts. So many things have happened that would make you smile, laugh and enjoy. Have driven past your old place in Newmarket a few times and it looks sad now. You arent there to make it a happy place. Still miss your wonderful friendship. Jennie & Rob xxxx

Jennie Hereford

December 4, 2014

Christmas is coming close again and in years gone by you always called in with a packet of mince pies. You never came to stay without bringing something and it added to the table. Think of you lots my friend and so miss you still. I drove past the old place in Maungawhai Road and smiled. How the years are flying by and how things have changed. Life just goes on doesnt it......but we still think of you. Merry Christmas gorgeous man!!!

Chris Stevenson

July 18, 2014

Like many others, I was thinking about you yet again, and realised it has been over a year since you moved on. I still miss you dearly, and I still find myself raising my glass to honour you here and there, reflecting on our long friendship and those fantastic (and sometimes zany) moments we and so many others shared with you.

Your happiness, positive outlook and charisma had a permanent flow on effect on me, and it seems, many others.

I am so grateful you spoiled us with so many delightful moments which included "midnight tennis" under car headlights, driving (floating) a car down the Selwyn River, attempting to sell off NZ's tramping huts as prime real estate, and being the only kid in ChCh to be able to take his bed to school and lie in it, all day!

Nobody else could do such things, and create so much laughter in the process.

Thank you so much for all of that.
You will never be forgotten,

July 11, 2014

Hi Simon, I was having a chat will Melly the other day, and realised that about this time last year we were battling some horrible North Island weather to come and see you for the last time!!!
As was not unusual a year ago, I found myself driving along and dialling your ph number - imprinted on my mind for the remainder of my life!!
we miss you Simon

Craig

July 9, 2014

The other night I got out my skillet that your cured for me Simon and I felt an incredible sadness hit me - Its been a whole year since we saw you, and we have had many chats about you with friends and acquaintances - We miss you!!! You are not forgotten.

Elizabeth Fenwick (nee Turnbull)

June 12, 2014

Dear Gerald, I have only just heard the incredibly tragic news about Simon. I am devastated for you all, such a wonderfully close and loving family, who took me under your wings when I was so far from my own family. I will always remember Simon for his huge enthusiasm for life but most of all for his love of the 'Doors'. He was definitely a very cool big brother. I think of him every time I hear any of their songs. My thoughts are with you all, although it is nearly year on. I hope your hearts are all a little less raw and a little less broken, although I know you will always feel an enormous loss for such a wonderful brother and son. All my love and thoughts to you all, Lizzie xxxxx

April 8, 2014

I am so sorry to read these messages of the loss of gentle crazy Simon. My heart goes out to his girls, Fin and Barbara, Jane and Gerald, Ann and Mel. I knew him 30 years ago and this is a shock. We are lucky to have had Simon in our lives. I wish I knew him better.

Mel Holland

January 15, 2014

A Road Trip to remember Simon.
After Christmas 2013 I took Simon, along with my three children, on a final road trip. Simon and I had many road trips together and I felt it important that he have a wonderful "last one" with me. Just the way that we always did - normally just the two of us, this time my kids helped me.
We took the ferry across to Picton, heading out on upper deck in the Marlborough Sounds. A dawn in the Sounds is what we started with. Breakfast was at The Store in Kekerengu, sitting looking out over the sea. Then off to Kaikoura, stopping at our favourite seal places. Next off to Lake Rotoiti at St Arnaud. Simon and I had planned to get married here, so we stayed one last time at the hotel we had always stayed in previously, and had planned for our honeymoon. I never dreamt that I would be going here with Simon under these conditions. Heartbreaking!
We walked down by the lake and took photos off the jetty just as we always did.
The following day we went back to the Buller Gorge (because Simon loved driving this spot), over to the West Coast where we had a wonderful holiday about 2 years ago. Back to Punakaiki and the blowholes. Down to Greymouth for a couple of days (yes Simon, I did make the knife which we had planned to do together). After a couple of days in the West Coast with more pounamu, we headed to Arthur's Pass.
Lunch at the Wobbly Kea - because that's what we do!
Simon had always asked of me that should anything ever happen to him that he would want to be returned to the Hawden Valley. Six months after his death, I took him back.
My kids and I took Simon back to his favourite river and built a cairn over his ashes. The cairn is topped with Mountain Beech (his favourite tree). He is finally at rest where he wanted to be.
The cairn was built from river stones by people who loved him dearly. I then drank a special toast to him (whiskey) and gave him his shot too - he would have loved that. Nothing better than being in his favourite place on earth, with people who love him... And a whiskey. Afterwards we went to the Hawden Shelter and had some quiet thoughts and memories over a mountain beech fire. Ayla signed the Shelter Guestbook for us.
We stayed at Craigieburn and the following day headed to Christchurch after again climbing over Castle Hill Bounders. Back to all of our haunts and 'my cathedral'.
The following day up the east coast, via Kaikoura again and hot crayfish from Nin's Bin on the side of the road. The following morning leaving Picton at dawn heading back home to Wellington.
Simon, you are not forgotten. You would have loved the week which we gave to you. Open road, music playing, big country, beech forests, honeydew, wonderful scenery - and buckets of love. Your final road trip was designed for you, to honour you. Hon, I have honoured my promise to you to get you back to the Hawden, and gave you a wonderful trip to celebrate your memory - you travelled it with me in my heart. You are not forgotten. We went back to Lake Rotoiti together - it was supposed to be our marriage the next time there, but at least we did it.
Still love you. Still miss you.
Melly

Jennifer Looman

August 20, 2013

Simon, it is your laugh I miss the most. Your quirky take on life and your ability to rationalise things with a laugh that I most enjoyed about you.

You had a heart for people; all those around you benefitted. I am so glad you found Melly and you had that time of bliss together. I am sure you carry her in your heart, and you in hers. Mind you, your heart will carry the love of your beautiful daughters, plus the friendship and love for all others around you. You knew love was infinite and you lived that every day, whether it was people, nature, those fab car trips or a joke - you shared that love.

I know you will miss the odd beer with Alister, but will you miss the late night Mother Goose sessions? I can hear you laughing now. Bless the Furbies, if it weren't for them we wouldn't have met you. We will raise a glass in your honour when we are next with them.

Farewell Simon, God speed and thank you for being a friend.

Jennifer Looman x

Frank Alexy

August 8, 2013

My dear friend Simon,
It was a big shock for me to hear of your death. You were much too young to leave us; your enthusiasm and your zest for life would have been enough for a further 50 years. There will be a big gap in the people who knew you. You were a very special person. I have met many people, but only a few that were like you. You were somebody it was always fun to be with. Your kindness, your humor and your spontaneity, your honesty, and your hospitality come to my mind immediately when I think about you. You have shown me so much of your beautiful home, New Zealand, I was always very happy to come. During my last trip, we were together with Sarah and Laura in White Rock. I will never forget the wonderful impressions there and I will not forget you. Fare well my friend Simon. In our hearts you will live on.
My thoughts are especially with Sarah, Laura and Mel. I hope that you now have the strength needed when a very close person is gone.

August 6, 2013

Have seriously missed those daily telephone calls, have seriously missed the long chats, have seriously missed the stresses, and communications. Of course wishing that this had never happened, and also hoping that Mel, Sarah and Laura are coming slowly to grips with their futures. For the extended MacKenzie family I trust that your grieveing is done in the knowledge of an amazing Guy, a great and dedicated Friend, an awesome Dad, and a loving partner for Mel.

RIP Simon

Craig Chelsea & family

Taken on our last holiday together. Melbourne. May. 2013.

Mel

August 5, 2013

Taken on Simon's last Birthday. I took him paragliding off a jet boat in Queenstown. He was delighted. And he never thought we'd do it

Mel

August 5, 2013

Last Christmas with a snake of Nika in the corner.

Mel

August 5, 2013

August 5, 2013

Simon - you were one of the kindest souls I knew and we miss you so much.
We never got to have that pizza and wine dinner :( Your girls came over to play with the puppies the other day - I'm hoping they will continue to drop in - my home will always be welcome to them.
My thoughts are with Mel,Laura and Sarah & all the family.
I hope you're at peace wherever you are. Love always, Claire xxx

I took this photo of you. This is the way you looked at me. I see the love in your eyes, looking at me.

Mel

August 4, 2013

Dear Simon
It has been a terribly long month since you died. So many times I have caught myself reaching for the phone to tell you something, only to realize that I can't anymore. So I tell you inside now, because this is where you still remain. And as some days have been tough - really tough - I stay strong. Because I hold on to what you love about me. My strength, my humour, my love, my compassion. I know that you would want me to remain as I was with you. I know that you would want me to not change. And always in the darkest of days I get given Kia Kaha. I head forward with you in my heart, because that is where you can remain. Nika misses you too. She stays very close to me now. Just as my world has turned upside down, so has hers. We planned our honeymoon for August, now I turn around and August is here, but you are not. I have decided to still make the trip, with you, just carried inside this time. We will still do the trip we planned. But it will be next year now. I wish that things would have been different. Each day I miss you. But Kia Kaha gets me through. I will stay strong for you. I will remain who I am - and keep all the qualities that you love about me - especially the quirky sense of humour. I still keep believing that you'll walk in the door and say that you've fooled us all. There is still so much that I want to say to you. Please just listen in to the thoughts inside now. We were soulmates. I am still your fiancé. I will always be your Melly and Tig. I miss you Babe. Watch over me. I love you. Mel

Karl Seil

July 23, 2013

Simon, you have been a good friend for many years and you always will be, as friends are forever. Will miss you.

Sarah Mackenzie

July 14, 2013

Bye Dad

Marie Casey

July 14, 2013

Our heart goes out to Fin, Barb, Jane, Gerald and their families as well as Simons own family for the sudden loss of our lovely cousin. Even though we didn't see him often we always remember the cheeky smile and the twinkle in the eye.
Remembered with love - Marie

Louise Coats

July 14, 2013

What a shock to hear this news today from a fellow NZFS survey crew member (1984). Too young to start the next journey. My condolences to those left behind.

Amber

July 12, 2013

I was so dreadfully sorry to hear the news about Simon. We were friends together in our group back during varsity days.
We used to listen to "The Doors" a lot. That was his favourite music. "Riders on the Storm"... I guess that`s what we all are. Our fate lies in God`s hands. Rest in peace, Simon.
My heartfelt condolences go out to his family.

July 12, 2013

Simon, You touched me but briefly on your life's journey but left an indelible stamp with your cheerful curley-haired enthusiasm and exhuberance. Rest easy mate
Jack H

Mike Hawes

July 12, 2013

Geez Simon. What a shock to hear you're gone. Way too early to be losing you. You were always such a laid-back and positive force to have around (even in the dark "early-Springsteen" days) and you were always the one to keep in touch over the years. Some good memories from the Forest Service days. The summer fieldwork lifestyle was a real drawcard for you cos you kept coming back for more. Rest easy mate.

Nicola & Andrew Houston

July 12, 2013

Words seem inadequate to express the shock and sadness we feel about Simon's passing. He really was the brightest and warmest of people and we will miss his wonderful zany sense of humour. It seems unimaginable that we won't see him again next time we are over in NZ. With deepest sympathy to his family & all whose lives he touched.

David Lake

July 11, 2013

Simon, what do I say? I have so many strong memories of our times together, at Stratford St, Le Bons, the mountains, Melbourne...I will never forget. I can't begin to describe how much your friendship as we grew from boys to men meant to me. And your sense of fun!! Thanks mate. To Barbara and Fin, Jane, Gerald, Mel, Ann, Sarah and Laura.. my deepest sympathies

Jacqui Irwin

July 11, 2013

Simon was a big, kind, wise part of my life from the 80s til now.
Crazy times in Christcurch in the tramping club I believe I might even have upchucked in Simon's boot, but still we stayed friends. Then there was the spa pool with port and chocolate macaroons at his parents' place. Always talking about life, the universe and everything.
Then he recruited me for the Forest Service animal veg survey, which was a major turning point in my life. Whenever there were hard times Simon was a wise, listening ear. Generous to a fault.
Never a kinder friend. And Mel and the girls and family have lost so much more. A really unique, special guy. Thank you, Simon. Honoured to have known you for so many years, but you've gone way too soon and will leave a huge gap.

July 11, 2013

Forest Service Veg Survey,Nelson, what a character, a fun loving big kid with a heart of gold, memories of spa antics in Fendalton...
the pics here bring back a tonne of great memories, thank you
Lots of Love
Tim and Vivienne Cruickshank
(Survey Teams 1984)

Kicking back a bit much, Dave. Ggnnkk...

Shelley, Gary and Dave Frost and Lake

July 11, 2013

Keeping it mellow in Melbourne, 1989.

Gary and Shelley Frost

July 11, 2013

July 11, 2013

FS, thank you for the best memories. We hadn't seen each other for a long time, but you were part of our perfect past, when we were young and being adult was still wonderfully new. You brought so much to our group; a ready smile, big feet and a bigger heart. We'll always remember,
Shell and Gary.

Sorry Simon not one of your best poses

Mike Hawes

July 11, 2013

Simon on Forest Service veg survey 1984

Mike Hawes

July 11, 2013

Simon (the younger) in his element - NW Nelson 1981

Mike Hawes

July 11, 2013

Simon & Mike before the BBQ - Yum!! (The seafood that is :-))

Steve Holland

July 10, 2013

July 10, 2013

Dearest Simons family,
this is such a huge shock as we had swapped texts over his birthday last year - and he was such a laughing happy person. Our love and sympathy to his family, we are bereft. Nancy and Brian O'Shea from Hibiscus Coast

Simon & Mel at Mike & Jayne's 50th Wedding anniversary dinner

Steve Holland

July 10, 2013

Simon & Melly relaxing in Arthurs Pass

Chris Stevenson

July 10, 2013

Roger Matthews

July 10, 2013

Chris Stevenson

July 10, 2013

We did some crazy and wonderful things together. I will never forget any of them. I feel so fortunate that I met you and shared so many great times and laughs. You have and always will be a great inspiration to me. Thank you my friend.

Always happy and playful around kids

July 10, 2013

Tig

July 10, 2013

Miss you.

Simon so happy with soulmate Melly

July 10, 2013

barbara neill

July 9, 2013

godbye my friend one of my best memories was when we were bestmen at a wedding
yonks ago. RIP in peace and continue with laughter and entertainment as always. Friends will be around to watch over the three girls lrft behind.
barb

July 9, 2013

Simon my friend, there will be a big hole in many hearts in the time ahead be sure there will be many of us who will support and watch over Mel for you
while you RIP and dream beautiful drreams of the life you share.
Barb

Jennie and Rob Hereford

July 9, 2013

Thank you for introducing me to Yum Cha, all the wonderful meals out, the laughter, the tears and for your wonderful friendship. You were a special star in our lives and we will miss you so so much!!! Our love and heartfelt sympathy goes to Mel and the girls and all his family. We will always remember you. xxx

In Wellington, 2005

Craig Shields

July 9, 2013

There are people I meet through work that I spent time with because I have to. And then there are people I meet through work, like Simon, that I spend time with because I enjoy it. I saw Simon far too rarely, but I treasured each and every time.

From sitting on the deck of his old house, drinking Vic Bitter and wondering what to do about the lack of plumbing caused by a mains break to singing "That's Komari" to mock our booth neighbors at a show in Oz, never was time with Simon bereft of laughter. That was his gift, and I think those who knew him loved him for it.

Condolences to those he left behind, and know that he will be missed around the globe.

July 9, 2013

To one of lifes great neighbours....
We will certainly miss your funny antics across the road, and that deep hearty laugh that could be heard for miles.
To Mel and the girls - we are thinking of you and we're here for you anytime.
RIP Simon, Cedar Drive just won't be the same.
Love Ang, Terry & Abby xx

Simon with Craig and Amy Shields in Wellington. A brilliant night out with a brilliant guy.

Craig Shields

July 9, 2013

July 9, 2013

So sad & shocked to hear of the loss of such an awesome kind & caring friend. Thoughts & prayers are with Mel, the children & family

Nikki Matthews

July 9, 2013

Darling Simon
From the fun and laughter of teenage years to the laughter of last month in Auckland
Family friends Food and Fun
The world was definitely a better place for you being your unique self ok maybe not the purple polar fleece
Rest in peace old friend you will be missed

Tom Gilbertson

July 9, 2013

To Simon's Family and Friends,

For many years Simon and I worked together as he was our sales agent in NZ. I had the joy of spending a week with him as we travelled throughout your beautiful country. Words cannot express my sadness at the news of his passing. My condolences to his family and friends.

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Memorial Events
for Finlay MACKENZIE

To offer your sympathy during this difficult time, you can now have memorial trees planted in a National Forest in memory of your loved one.