FITZPATRICK, Colin Barrett (Pops)
Peacefully on October 26, 2025, at Leslie Groves Hospital, with family by his side; aged 85 years. Dearly loved husband of Christina for 62 years, much loved father, father-in-law, grandfather and great-grandfather of Mary and Barrie, Steph and Dion, Bec and Andrew. Jan and John, Will, Matt and Amiee, and Jed. Tina and Barry, Sam, Jason and Jordan. Richard and Cy, Mik, Elly and Matt; Flynn and Lucy, and Leigham.
A celebration of Colin's life will be held in Hope and Sons Chapel, 523 Andersons Bay Road, Dunedin, at 11am on Monday November 3, then the family will hold a private interment. In lieu of flowers donations to Rock Solid Youth Trust or the Red Cross, would be appreciated and may be left below. Messages to the Fitzpatrick family C/- PO Box 5013, Dunedin 9054. Livestream can be accessed below.
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Livestream Service sheet SlideshowMessages
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To Colin's Family, we were classmates at Papakura High School from 1954 onwards. He was always cheerful, specially on the school bus from TeHihi into Papakura. We met briefly once at Rotorua Public Hospital when he was visiting, and was so helpful when I phoned for some advice some years ago. A huge loss to you all, my most sincere sympathy. Jean McKinstry ( nee Appleby) now living in the Rangitikei district.
Colin was my father's longest-standing and most faithful friend and a rock to us all. We called him Uncle Colin. As a young child I was a bit confused as to who the real uncles were and who the honorary ones were but I wanted to think he was a real one because he was so lovely. I am so sad to have missed being at the funeral in person. Nevertheless, my heart joins with all those who loved and were loved by him. What a wonderful life and a profound loss. Deepest sympathy and much love to Chris and all the family.
My condolences to Colin's family. I was a patient of Colin's before his retirement from practice. I still remember him, his calm and gentle manner. What a beautiful service to honor a very special man.
My condolences to Colin's family for the passing of a wonderful man. He operated on me 28 years ago being one of the youngest in Dunedin to have a hip replacement, and still as perfect as the day he operated on me. Through this I had my children and a wonderful life, enabling me to go hiking, rock climbing and cycling. I've always been so grateful to Colin that gave me these opportunities. He was a truly gentle soul and a caring outstanding surgeon. RIP Colin
Dear Chris and family. Rebecca and I sent you our love as you say goodbye to your loved one. I always enjoyed being part of the music group at St Stephens. Colin was such a gentle soul and we remember him for his warmth and humor. And sharing many happy shared meals. Indeed a Blessing. Love Mary and Rebecca (Raad)
Thank you Mr Fitzpatrick for all you did to help me be a functional member of society. You operated on me in the 80's and early 90's because of you I'm able to fix computers. Thank you for being so caring
Dear Christine and family I am so sorry I was unable to be with you this morning to farewell Colin. I worked with Colin when I was nursing but my more recent knowing him was in the Prison Chaplaincy ministry. Colin was a reluctant starter but when he did take the plunge he became an invaluable presence. His involvement as a companion in the Seasons for Growth programme and his pastoral visiting made such a difference to the lives of so many men. he had such a compassionate and caring heart. He will be sadly missed. A very special man returned to his creator. My sincere condolences to you all. Blessings. Veronica Casey
Dear Chris and family, as a professional colleague of Colin’s, I worked with him on many occasions in the past and always was impressed by his excellence as a surgeon and gentle manner as a human being. Since his retirement and likewise my retirement, our paths have not crossed apart from the occasional medical history lectures in the past. However I cherish memories of Colin, and my condolences are extended to Chris and his family in their loss. My thoughts are with you,Jim Clayton.
To Chris and family. We were sory not to be there but watched on-line and shared the sincere celebration of a mentor, colleague, patient and handy-chap generally. Lovely Colin, rest in peace.
Sorry to hear about Colin. We enjoyed very much meeting up with you both at Paihia with Keith and Dorothy. Lots of love from Josefa (Cleary) and Kevin Moynihan. Josephine (FitzPatrick) and Noel Cleary and all the family.
We were so sorry to hear that Uncle Colin had passed. He had such a calm and gentle energy that always reminded me so much of Grandma Eva and with a spark of humour too. I know he will be deeply missed. Sending our love, strength and peace during such a sad time, Becky, Clint, Tom and Alex ♥
He was a pillar of strength and wonderful friend for many years. Rest easy Colin. With gratitude, The Powell Family