Based in Christchurch, New Zealand, the 74-year-old former police detective-turned-rich-lister was known for co-founding Ryman Healthcare in 1984, with the message that it had to be good enough for his own mum.
He was involved in Ryman Healthcare for 34 years, during which it was listed on the New Zealand stock exchange and became the country’s largest retirement village operator.
Former Ryman Chief Executive Simon Challies said Kevin wanted to be respected more than liked, “[But he] achieved both because he was a very personable guy.”
Challies vividly recalled the day in 2006 when he succeeded Kevin in the executive chair. His predecessor emptied his office entirely and left a single post-it note on the desk for Challies to find: “It’s all yours, don’t cock it up.”
He was also known for his work in the thoroughbred industry as a sponsor, breeder and owner. Kevin was made an Officer of the Order of Merit in 2016 for his services to charities, including the Christchurch Medical Research Fund and the Champion Centre for young children with disabilities.
He died on Friday, 23 August, after a long illness, aged 74.
