Rich-lister and noted philanthropist dies after cancer battle
Queenstown-based businessman and philanthropist Sir Eion Edgar has left a behind ‘‘an enormous legacy’’, his family say.
The 76-year-old died yesterday, surrounded by family at his home in Queenstown. He had been fighting pancreatic cancer since late last year.
Edgar was chairman of investment company Forsyth Barr until his retirement in 2019, and was instrumental in driving the creation of its namesake stadium in Dunedin.
He was a former chancellor of the University of Otago, as well as director of the Reserve Bank of New Zealand, chairman of the New Zealand Stock Exchange, and president of the New Zealand Olympic Committee. In 2009, Edgar was made a Knight Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit, for services to education, business, and sport.
As of 2016, he was on the National Business Review’s ‘Rich List’ as one of the richest men in the country, worth $130 million.
In an interview with just weeks before he died, Edgar said he wanted people to remember that he had been ‘‘able to contribute and make New Zealand a better place’’.
‘‘I’ve always said my aim in life is for everyone to owe me a favour. That says it all.’’
‘‘Eion was a dearly loved husband, father, father-in-law, grandfather and friend to many,’’ his family said yesterday.
He was known for his generosity, kindness, and passion for business, sport, education, philanthropy and the arts. ‘‘Eion had a positive impact on the lives of many New Zealanders across the vastly diverse causes, projects and businesses he supported so passionately,’’ they said.
‘‘He was a leader in philanthropy in New Zealand and brought others along with him to amplify his impact and help make New Zealand a better place. He leaves behind an enormous legacy.’’
In a statement, Forsyth Barr said the company was ‘‘deeply saddened to note that our former chairman, colleague, mentor and friend Sir Eion Edgar passed away’’.
Edgar started Forsyth Barr in 1972 and was with the company for nearly 50 years.
‘‘Eion always wanted the best for the firm and encouraged everyone to take the opportunities and enjoy what we do.
‘‘He loved Forsyth Barr and seeing the firm develop,’’ the company said.
His contributions to business, sports, the arts and the community ‘‘tell the story of someone who loved life, always wanted to get involved and who was incredibly generous with his time’’.
‘‘New Zealand has lost a truly iconic and visionary leader,’’ the company said.
‘‘Eion lived life to the fullest. We deeply mourn his passing . . . but we celebrate an amazing life and an amazing man who gave it his all.’’
Minister for Sport and Recreation Grant Robertson said Edgar’s energy, drive and generosity had been ‘‘truly immense’’.
Edgar is survived by his wife of 50 years, Lady Jan Edgar, and his sons Jonty, Hamish and Adam.