Steve O'Brien

O’BRIEN, Stephen John.
Sadly passed away on December 16th. Faithful husband and travel partner of Jenny, amazing dad of Christy, Asher and Finn, and their partners Jono, Ellie and Maddy, brother of Chris. A vigil to share stories will be held on Sunday 5pm St Anthony’s Church, Seatoun. Funeral Mass celebrated Monday 11am St Anthony’s Church.

Messages to the O’Brien family may be made online at lychgate.co.nz/send-a-tribute/
or posted c/- Lychgate Funerals, 306 Willis Street, Wellington 6011

Tributes

Kathleen Brown

Oh Jenny and family I simply cannot believe that this has happened.
It is with heartfelt sorrow that I send my love to you all at this very sad time.
May you rest in peace Stephen
Your cousin Kathleen

Peter Brooks

Dear Jenny and family, I was deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Steve, your beloved husband and father this week.
Steve was an amazing man who I have known for many years. He was funny yet serious, creative yet studious but mostly a caring helpful person with a big heart.
His loss to us all is heartfelt by many as he always gave 100% in everything he did.
I have many memories of Steve, his laughter, his antics but mostly his good nature.
My deepest sympathies to you all, a good man gone too soon.
Rest in Peace my friend, you have gone but will never be forgotten.
Peter
Hong Kong

Bill Hastings

Dear Jenny and Steve’s family,

I am so sorry for your loss. Please accept my condolences, and my apology for not being able to attend the service on Monday.

Steve’s passing is also New Zealand’s loss. I first met him in 1998. It was a meet ‘n greet. He was the head of Censorship Compliance at the Department of Internal Affairs. I had just been appointed the Chief Censor. I think he wanted to see the cut of my gib. I must have passed muster because that was the start of a great working relationship that lasted the nearly 12 years I was in the job. He of course, was in his job even longer. That job exposed him to some toxic, cruel and abusive material that no one should ever have to see, and I have no doubt that the support and love of you and your family grounded him, restored his faith in humanity, and kept him going. That he did it for so long is testament of the strength of your love. His enormous contribution to stopping this material truly left New Zealand, and the world, a better place. You, and all of us, should be proud of what he achieved with his life. I am so very sad at his passing, but so very happy and honoured to have known him. Steve, rest in peace my friend.

Judge Bill Hastings
Chief Censor, 1998-2010

Phillipa Kitchin

Dear Jenny, Christy, Asher and Finn
We are so sorry to hear of Steve’s passing. We are thinking of you all and send our love across the water,
Phillipa and Hannah xx

Robynne Nunan

Where did the years go? So many beautiful memories from our youth. I still remember being introduced to the gang – what a scary time! You were all so clicky and I felt like an intruder. Not for long though. Oh what fun we had! I still remember you popping into our first home weekly, via your police car & in uniform to watch Hill St Blues with us! I’m sure the neighbours wondered what the heck was going on – funny they never asked!
What about the time we went to Bernie’s graduation – you took a date (sorry Jenny) and she danced with Bernie a lot – so you dragged me up to try & cut in – more than once! Funny.
Then life took over and as so often happens different paths were trod – until we found out that Steve was sick. We were holidaying in Rarotonga at the time and we were shocked. Needless to say it led to a reconnection and it felt like we’d never really lost touch. I know Tim thoroughly enjoyed the weekly coffee dates & the reminiscing.
I’m sorry I didn’t get to see you before you left this world Steve BUT I promise I’ll keep an eye on Jenny! We’ve reconnected now and I’m not going to let that go.
Oh Slow I can’t quite believe it all. I hope you’re free of pain & in the arms of your Lord. You are a beautiul soul – even though you were a pain in the bum sometimes!
One last thing – F**K CANCER
With all my love Rob xoxoxox

Nic McCully

Dear Steve’s family,

My condolences. I was shocked to hear of Steve’s passing. I knew and worked with Steve for 20 years in the censorship space. I worked at the Classification Office alongside Bill Hastings and was a member of the reference group when the internet filter run by Steve’s team was developed. Steve had a wry humour and could give you a look that said so much more than words could convey. Steve was an outstanding public servant who was committed to making a difference in censorship compliance, and he did!
Kind regards Nic McCully
Deputy Chief Censor 2002 – 2015

Gerardine and David Wood

Dear Jenny, Christy, Asher and Finn, Heartbreaking news! Nearly 40 years ago I had the privilege of being bridesmaid at your wedding. Such a beautiful couple. We are so sorry we can not attend Steve’s mass in person. RIP Steve. May you now know the true glory of the Lord. Sending you all our love and prayers. Gerardine.

Carol Colgate

Dear Jenny and family

My heart goes out to you at this sad and difficult time. Stephen will rejoice at his first Christmas in Heaven. May your faith carry you through this time and keep the happy memories uppermost in your mind. With much affection.
Carol Colgate

Theresa Wilson

I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to the family of Steve O’Brien. He was instrumental in my professional development, and his leadership left a lasting impact on me. Steve (Sir) had an incredible sense of humour and always led by example, showing me, that integrity and excellence can go hand in hand with kindness and humility. Their guidance shaped not only my career but also my approach to challenges and opportunities.
Please know that their influence continues to inspire me and many others every day.

Jo Rowe

Sending lots of love to all of the family.
I have just watched Steve’s lovely service,
So nice to be able to watch it. What a great send off and final song.
Thinking of you all
Lots of love cousin Jo

Pooja Patel

Hi Jenny – I just wanted to reach out and offer my condolences for Stephen. I’m so sorry – I will be keeping you and the family in my prayers. Hope you are doing okay. You had such a huge impact on me while I was studying at st Catherine’s college and I will never forget your generosity, care and time. Sending you lots of strength at this difficult time x