Michael Blackwell has passed away

Mike Blackwell with his wife Sarah McCallum at the the 150th anniversary of Blackwell's Department Store.
Mike Blackwell with his wife Sarah McCallum at the the 150th anniversary of Blackwell’s Department Store.

It is with much sorrow that we report Michael Blackwell passed away on the evening of Wednesday 17th May.

Michael joined the firm in 1988 after completing a BA degree at the University of Canterbury. Over the next 34 years, Michael helped to modernise the store with extensive refurbishment of the exterior and interior, introducing new office systems and new merchandise.

After his father David Blackwell retired in 1993, Michael in conjunction with his brother Andrew jointly ran the store as fifth generation directors of the family business.

Even the troubled times of the Global Financial Crisis and recovering from the trauma of the 2010 earthquakes couldn’t dampen Michael’s spirits. His cheerful banter and camaraderie will be missed by staff and customers alike.

A memorial service to celebrate Michael’s life will be held at a future date.

Read more about Michael’s involvement…