To be attributed to the family of Richard Phillips
Richard Anthony Phillips, 46, was a man dedicated to his family – his partner Jacqueline and their teenage daughters Freya and Indy.
He met Jac while travelling in Nepal in 1997. Together with their daughters, they made the move from the UK to New Zealand in 2008, and they have brought their girls up to share their love of the outdoors.
Rich was happiest in the hills with his family and his beloved dog Betsy. He was an experienced climber, hiker, mountain biker and diver who had travelled widely before settling in New Zealand. He was the sort of person who could turn his hand to anything, including having a hands-on role in building the family’s home on the Port Hills in Christchurch.
He was a loyal and loving friend who would never fail to go the extra mile for anyone. He earned the respect and admiration of those he met at home, at work, on his travels and even on the sidelines of his girls’ sporting events.
An engineering geologist, Rich joined Tonkin & Taylor in 2008. His colleagues will remember him for his technical expertise, his willingness to help, and his positive outlook on life.
He was the rock of his family and they are devastated by his loss, as are his parents Roy and Valerie, and his brother Stewart. His family appreciate all the support they have received as they come to terms with the loss of their most incredible father, partner, son, brother, and friend.