By PSS | Posted: Tuesday September 18, 2018
It is with great sadness we write to inform you that Allan McKechnie passed away on 28 April 2018.
Allan served as Chairman of Presbyterian Support from 1973 to 1977 and was a trustee for a total of 19 years.
In his time on the board his dedication was significant. Six additional units were built at Resthaven and Walmsley House during his tenure as Chairman, Vickery Court was transferred to Presbyterian Support Southland in 1974, and in 1977 it was announced that Highfield House would be converted from a children’s home to accommodation for ten physically disabled people.
In 1987 Mr McKechnie chaired a fundraising group to raise money to build the Wakatipu Home. A total of $520,000 was raised which represented at that time $87 for every person living in the Wakatipu District.
Allan passed away in Nelson in his 99th year just a week shy of his birthday. Allan had a distinguished career, beginning after the war at a posting at H&J’s Gore. Among his many achievements, Allan was the President of the Retailers Federation and held Directorships at the Bank of New Zealand, Southland Farmers Coop and Alliance Group.
In his eulogy, son Alistair spoke fondly of his father. Allan was a loved father and grandfather and great-grandfather to his seven grandchildren and ten greatgrandchildren, of whom he was very proud.
A tree was planted at Peacehaven in dedication to his memory and as a tribute to his enduring generosity. Allan’s wife Hilda and daughter Jane recently visited Invercargill and were happy that we have honoured a “very special man”.
“Mr McKechnie was a true gentleman,” remarked Peter Wards.