Also known as "Crowbar"
17 June 1962 – 15 May 2025
Also known as "Crowbar"
17 June 1962 – 15 May 2025
Peacefully at Taranaki Base Hospital on Thursday, 15 May 2025, aged 62. Dearly loved husband of Christine. Cherished father of Caitlin and Phoebe.
Loved Brother of Denise, Heather, and Shaun (dec.)
Messages to the MacDonald Family may be left here on Eoin’s tribute page.
A service to celebrate Eoin’s life will be held at Eagars Te Henui Chapel, 174 Lemon Street, New Plymouth on Tuesday 20 May 2025 at 10.30am.

Funeral service held at Eagars Te Henui Chapel
When working in the Palmy office, Eoin found out I had family in New Plymouth so every time he visited he would ask when I was transferring. I finally transferred and he welcomed me, im sure it was more the appreciatiob for the morning teas. One special memory was Eoin and Chrissie competing in a Christmas game. He had a great memory and would talk about his mum and late brother, rugby trips, where cousins lived in Stratford, old work stories and he always showed appreciation to everyone through gifts or words. I'm so sorry for your loss, he loved his three girls and always shared how proud he was of you all. Rest in Peace Eoin, we miss you already. Chrissie and girls, stay strong and the IRD family is always here. With love, Keryn.
Chrissie, Caitlyn and Phoebe, you were the absolute centre of Eoin’s world. He spoke about you all with such passion and love. I feel so privileged to have spent the last of Eoins working days traveling with him to and from Palmy. The car chats about each pub as we passed with a quip about the rugby bus trips and better work stories meant it was a trip full of laughs. It still seems unbelievable that I won't walk in to see you at your desk. Hold tightly to your beautiful memories of your kind loving husband and father. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. Much love EJ.
Privileged to have called you my true friend, Crowbar. One of the most decent, friendliest and engaging people I have ever known. Genuine and honest to a fault. This leaves a huge hole in all our lives, but most importantly for Chrissie and his 2 girls, who made him so proud and he loved with all his heart. Looking forward to giving you the send off you so rightly deserve on Tuesday. Rest Easy big fella. 💙
Crowbar taught me so much as a young leader, and his charisma, wit and charm came through in all that he did. What I loved most about him was the genuine enthusiasm he showed whenever he met me and so many others He taught me that treating people with respect and kindness were virtues that he always upheld. Rest easy my friend, and thank you for everything, I'm blessed to have known you. And to Chrissy, Phoebe and Caitlin, you were his world and he loved you with all his soul, my deepest condolences.
I was so sad to hear of your sad news. Chrissy and girls, I didn't ever meet you but I know how much you will miss Crowbar. I met Crowbar when I was working for 6 years at IRD after leaving School in 1987. If everyone I worked with since was as awesome as him, my working life would have been just perfect. So much fun we had at the work do's and I have seen him a couple of times briefly since. Rest well Crowbar and I hope to see you on the other side ❤️❤️
Crowbar - was one in a million - I worked with both Crowbar and Chrissy for just over a year nearly 18 years ago in the NP office and then bumped into him by chance in the Hamilton office not to long ago and it was like being transported back time in the 5 minute chat we shared. Eion’s presence was truly impactful, and his memory will be cherished by all who knew him. Chrissy and your girls, may you find comfort in the love and support of those around you, and strength in the memories you shared together.
I worked with crowbar for over a decade when I was in my mid 20s-mid 30s, and he became one of my best work mates, in probably my favourite team I have ever worked in. We would smoke together on breaks, spend nights at the bar together after work drinks, play table tennis and pool in the staffroom together, and just generally talk and laugh the day away as we worked. But he was way more than just a colleague. He was a mentor as I learned the job and got my qualifications and we spent lots of time together out in the field in New Plymouth and around the country. I'll never forget tracking a guy to his house one day and when we knocked on the door, two big Rottweiler dogs came round the corner off their leashes. I backed off slowly saying "easy boys, easy boys, we're leaving..." But decided we better make a run for it so I yelled for crowbar to Run! As I turned round, he was already 20metres down the driveway having left me there to fend for myself lol. That day he taught me you don't have to be the fastest, just be the smartest... When I split with my wife he put me up at his house for a few months, even tho I know he valued his privacy at home. This was just before he met Chrissie and it meant a lot to me. We played touch rugby and golf together for many years, and he even got me to join his Tukapa Senior Thirds team for a couple of years. I had never played before and was way out of my depth in such an awesome team, but I was always welcomed and had such a fun time. Plenty of big nights and drunken times that shall remain with me... He was a good friend, and one of the most caring, funny, and personable guys I have ever met. I'm sad I didn't get to see him much at all the past few years but I know he was busy enjoying his family life and I also know Chrissie, Phoebe and Kaitlin all meant so much to him. RIP Crowbies.
Working with Eoin was a true gift. He had a rare ability to light up a room with his humour, his quirks, and his deep love for people. Whether it was a quick joke in a meeting or a thoughtful check-in during a tough day, Eoin made everyone feel seen and valued. His laughter was contagious, stories unforgettable, and his presence — always genuine. What made Eoin truly special was his authenticity. He never tried to be anyone but himself, and in doing so, he gave others permission to do the same. He brought a unique warmth to our leadership team and those he led — challenging us to lead with heart and never take ourselves too seriously. We’ll miss his warmth, his smile, his friendship, and the way he made work feel a little more like home. He was 1 in a million. Rest in peace Crowbar TJ
A kind soul and a true professional, Eoin’s presence brightened every room. Always a laugh and ... well those Dad jokes I will leave it there. I will remember him for his warmth, dedication, wit and support over the years. My thoughts are with you all at this time.
Condolences, deepest sympathy to all Eoin's family at this very sad time. Crowbar - an unforgettable work colleague from back in the early 1980s at IRD. I still have your "then famous" recipe of the Caramel Chocolate Cake everybody loved and was your regular go to, which you always brought into the office, for the morning tea shouts. Gone too soon. Rest in Peace.
So saddened by our loss my heart goes out to you all .... a beautiful tribute to Crowbar
My condolences to Eion’s family. He was one of a kind
Sending my heartfelt condolences to Eion's family, thinking of you all.
Crowbar was one of those rare souls who could light up any room with his humour and warmth. He had a gift for making people laugh, even in the toughest moments, and his advice always came from a place of genuine care and wisdom. Whether it was a kind word, a clever joke, or a thoughtful gesture, Crowbar had a way of making those around him feel seen and supported. His presence was a blessing, and his absence will be deeply felt by all who knew him. He will be missed more than words can say.
I've worked with, and got to know Crowbar over many years, including about 8 months in 2011 when I was based in New Plymouth full-time. He was such an awesome, friendly bloke who always brought humour to the situation and helped to lighten the mood. A top bloke who will be greatly missed. To Chrissy, Caitlin and Phoebe, my deepest sympathies for your loss.
Crowbar was a absolute genuine guy that always brought cheek and banter when he visited the Palmy office. He'd always be giving someone jib or having someone on about something. Wherever he went or whoever he spoke to, someone would be laughing! We'll miss his visits, his fun vibe and charismatic smile. To Caitlin, Phoebe and Chrissy. I hope that the beautiful memories of your dearest dad and hubby provide you with some comfort during this massively difficult time.
Ah I am still in shock and devastated by the news. He had my back as a friend and as my team lead when I was in New Plymouth. We had great banter at work and off it. I couldnt have survived my time in New Plymouth without him thats for sure. You will be missed no doubt by everyone that knows you. Condolences too on behalf of Main Ramasamy and Grant Marsters
Eoin, its hard to believe that you won't here to say good morning and give me a big smile everyday. This became part of my routine. You never failed to make me laugh with all your jokes and lifted my spirits when I needed. You were so supportive of all my aspirations and truly believed that I could achieve anything. You spoke so highly of your girls Caitlin and Phoebe, always making sure to update us with how they are doing and being so proud of all their achievements. You are so missed already. Chrissie, Caitlin and Phoebe you are in my thoughts.
Sincerest condolences guys, I was absolutely shocked to hear of your passing. A great tukapa man who always had time for a yarn and a beer. You will be greatly missed mate, rest easy and go have a beer with penny for me. Moe mai rā.
I was devastated to hear of your passing Eoin. I will miss your cherry morning greetings and your fun sense of humour. You will be missed by your IRD family and things wont be quite the same at the office without you. Sending my thoughts and love to you, Chrissie, Caitlin and Phoebe.
Eoin, I'm going to miss all those Dad jokes and all the banter about New Plymouth being better than Napier! You made me feel so welcome right from the first time I met you. We've lost a kind, genuine man that was loved and respected by all. To Chrissie, Caitlin and Phoebe, my deepest condolences.
I was sadden to hear you were called away to be with our heavenly father Eoin. You will be truly missed my friend. I will miss our conversations about how proud you were as a father of your daughters Kaitlyn and Phoebe. Especially how you were proud of Kaitlyn getting her first job, helping her get her first car and that you have a sober driver for you and Chrissie lol. And how proud you were that Phoebe was getting into MMA and that you loved taking her to practice, which you also mentioned Phoebe will be your bodyguard lol. I will miss our little banters Eoin lol. And then there is your lovely wife Chrissie. It was always good to see you check in on Chrissie at work when she is about to start up her laptop, during work to see if she needed anything and when you leave and say to Chrissie see you at home. To Chrissie, Kaitlyn, Phoebe and the rest of your close family/Whanau/Agia and friends, my sincere condolences to you all. I am deeply sorry for your loss of the passing of Kevin Eoin Macdonald who was a loving husband, a caring father an an awesome friend to all that knew Eoin. To Eoin Malō ona malu ‘ia i lou malaga (means Rest in Peace in Samoan)
Eoin, I will miss our rugby banter, I will miss our little chats but most of all I shall miss your morning greetings and your daily smile! A genuinely caring person to all he met and a loving husband and father. All my thoughts are with Chrissie and the family at this time.
I had the genuine privilege of working alongside Eoin (Crowbar) as part of a national IRD committee for over ten years. His caring nature and sense of humour was always to the fore. I’ll miss the man hugs we shared on his visits to his Palmerston North based team. You played the good game mate and will be missed. To Chrissie, Caitlin and Phoebe, my sincere thoughts and condolences.
Crowbar, such a genuine nice guy who was taken way too soon. Going to miss your humour and compassion for others. RIP my friend. To Chrissie, Caitlin and Phoebe, my sincere condolences. Eoin was always so proud of you all.
Crowbar - one of life’s best. From the moment I stared at IRD, you made me feel so welcome. The jokes, the laughter, the beers, your wedding day, seeing you become a Dad - you packed a lot in and made your mark on so many people. Rest easy, and in peace. Christie, Caitlin & Phoebe, we are sending you so much love ❤️
My sincere condolences to Christie, Caitlin and Phoebe. On every occasion that I would meet Eoin, I would in a be in an uplifted mood thereafter. He had that effect on just about everybody I’m sure. His smile and jokes will stay with me. I will tune in to the service from Ireland and my thoughts are with you all. John O’Mahony
Chrissie, Caitlin & Phoebe, We are so sorry for the loss of your beloved partner & dad, it was always obvious that he loved you all so much. Eoin was always great for a chat and a laugh, he will be missed by everyone who knew him. RIP. Arohanui Rachel, Eric, Aoibheann & Lucie
What a beaut of a man! Still can't believe it, our hearts go out to his wonderful family, he was so proud to be your dad and husband. When we moved to New Plymouth from South Africa, we found our new home at Tukapa Senior 3rds. Crowbar and his team made sure we were looked after and felt right at home in our new country. Even after rugby, it was always a pleasure to run into him, his warm cheeky smile capable of lifting any spirits. Love you Crowbar, you'll always have a place in our hearts. De Villiers family.
Crowbar was one in a million! I will miss his quirky sense of humor and terrible dad jokes... that were so bad we just had to laugh. He was such a genuine, caring person that always thought of others and he will be missed terribly. RIP Crowbar
Crowbar - you were a legend within IRD ( and no doubt outside of it too). A good bugger gone too soon. RIP
Even though I did not know Eoin for that long, From the first day I started he was warm and welcoming. He was an awesome friend. I enjoyed working with him. I will miss our jokes and chats. My deepest condolences to Chrissy, Phoebe and Caitlin.
Dear Chrissie, Caitlin and Phoebe, I am so sorry for your loss. I am personally still felt shocked by this awful news. I understood there is no worlds can express such a loss to someone you love. My thoughts with you! And I hope you all stay strong and continue to prosper in your life. Eoin would want the best for you. Please accept my deepest condolences. It was a great pleasure to have met Eoin. I always remembered when I first join NP office, Eoin made me smile and felt welcomed. Rest in peace Eoin ❤️ Nancy Li
It is with great sadness we have learned of Eion's passing. We have very fond memories of Eion having known him from his first day starting in the IRD New Plymouth. He was always a lovely happy-go-lucky guy and looking for a good time. We remember him on the many social occasions we enjoyed at the IRD, far too many to mention! Alan fondly remembers giving him a leave slip to complete one morning when he arrived not feeling the best after a night out and not looking very well at all! He will be terribly missed by all of his many colleagues, both working and social and of course by his loving family. We will be thinking of you all tomorrow as you farewell a dear friend and colleague. Many sympathies from us here in Papamoa. Sorry we can't be with you in person. Regards, Lesney and Alan Jones
Eion - What an incredible contribution you have been in the lives of those you love and those who crossed your path. I will always remember that familiar call "Hey Cuzzy!" during our last few years of synchronistic supermarket catch ups. Your warm heart, cheeky smile and gentle enquiry was always gratefully received. You will be missed 😥 Mā te wā my Cuzzy xx
Chrissie, Caitlin and Phoebe, I was devastated to hear about the loss of your husband and dad and my dear friend. My thoughts and prayers are with you. Eoin was a 1 in a million, warm and caring with a great sense of humour. And such a proud dad and husband. I will sorely miss his funny laugh, his cheerful good mornings, his presence around the office and our deep and meaningful chats. RIP Eoin
Eion, Thank you for being so warm and welcoming from the very first moment I walked into the office on day one. Your brilliant sense of humour, beaming smile, and pleasant demeanour will be sorely missed my friend. You were kind, caring, and you always brightened our day. My thoughts and prayers go out to Chrissie, Caitlyn and Phoebe. Rest in peace Crowbar.
We were based in Tauranga and Crowbar was in New Plymouth. We met up at Team Leader meetings throughout the years. Crowbar was someone we always looked forward to seeing - and he was always so delighted to see us. He genuinely cared about us - and we will miss his sense of humor and classic comments. Health-wise, Crowbar was delivered a hand he did not deserve. We are deeply saddened to hear of Crowbar’s passing. Thoughts and prayers to Chrissie, Caitlyn and Phoebe. Rest in peace.
Eoin, You will be missed, full of life and humour and always available to fill those awkward gaps of "silence" on our conference calls with a wry bit of humour or to ask a curly question to get people talking. A genuine and thoughtful all round good guy!! To Chrissie, Caitlin and Phoebe, you can be very proud of who he was and the memories he leaves behind. Thinking of you all at this very sad time kind regards Raelene Stewart
My condolences to Christine, Caitlin & Phoebe, and to his IRD colleagues. Crowbar was a real character, quick-witted and quick to laugh. He will be sorely missed by many however his exploits will be treasured & recalled by many people in the years to come. RIP Eoin.
Eoin, I still remember the day I started in the New Plymouth office, you were so welcoming and ensured I had everything I needed to succeed in this office. You always had your funny dad humour comments ready to go for any conversation. You were an incredibly proud father who would always light up whenever you spoke about your two girls. Miss hearing your infectious laugh throughout the office, your morning greeting for every person who walked through the door. Sending all my love to Chrissie,Caitlin and Phoebe through this difficult time.
Eoin, thank you for being such a welcoming and warm presence in the office. We will miss your hilarious jokes and stories. His face always lit up when he spoke of his beautiful family, it was heart warming to listen to him dote on his family. My heartfelt condolences to Chrissie, Caitlin and Phoebe x
It is with deep sadness and heavy hearts that we farewell one of Tukapa’s finest "Crowbar". As a Manager of our Senior Thirds side, Crowbar brought something truly special to our club, not just organisation and leadership, but heart, humour, and a selfless dedication that lifted the spirits of everyone around him. Crowbar wasn’t just a manager he was the glue. The man who made sure jerseys were ready, players were sorted, beers were cold, and spirits stayed high, win or lose. He reminded us all what grassroots rugby is about, mateship, loyalty, laughter, and the love of the game. He cared for his team like family and created a space where everyone felt valued and welcome. On behalf of everyone at Tukapa past and present we thank you Crowbar. For your service, your friendship, your unwavering commitment to the Senior Thirds, and for being the embodiment of what it means to be a true Chook. You will be deeply missed, but your mark on this club will never fade. Rest easy, mate. 💙🤍🐔
So very sad to hear of the passing of Eion (Crowbar). Always enjoyed his visits to Palmerston North as he was a breath of fresh air and would have us in fits of laughter. Condolences to family - gone too soon. RiP.
Crowbar, gone too soon. I’m going to miss our hugs, cheeky banter, terrible dad jokes but most of all your comforting presence and words of wisdom. Thank you for being a wonderful friend xx To Chrissie, Caitlin and Phoebe, we grieve with you. Nā koutou i tangi, nā tātou katoa. Aroha nui, Es
Heartfelt condolences to Chrissie, Caitlin & Phoebe during this difficult time. Eoin was a vibrant presence on the St Pius sports sidelines, always with encouragement and the first to crack a joke. His good spirit and laughter will be remembered!
I first met Crowbar back in 1986 when I started at IR in the New Plymouth office. We later sat beside each other in the Perry Dines building—back in the days when you could still smoke at your desk and crack open a window! Fun loving and quick with a joke Crowbar had that special gift for putting people at ease with his wit and good humour. He made a lasting impression on those lucky enough to have spent time with him. My deepest condolences to Chrissie and the family during this sad time
Chrissie, Caitlin and Phoebe, our deepest condolences to you and your family. Eoin was a wonderfully kind and caring man, a true family fan and a whole lot of fun and laughter. We cannot imagine your loss. Take solace in the memories you all have together, cherish them forever. Thinking of you all. Tania and Shannon
Well Crowbar – 45 years together. With Carolyn Murphy and Dean Robertson we were all very very young fresh-faced teenagers starting our working life. Boys went to technical, girls went to processing hmmm. You often told new staff our start date was 10 and sometimes 20 years later so as not to reveal our age!! Apart from my husband Fabian and now partner Philip, I think you are the only other man I have seen most weekdays in the last 45 years!! It will not be the same without you in the office. You have always been kind and so witty and always a breath of fresh air. Chrissie and girls, my deepest sympathy to you. Aroha nui Moe mai rā Carolyn Niwa
Eoin's one of my favourite human beings. We used to only see each other in person a few times a year and it was exactly the same every time....a big man hug and big smile. One of those rare sorts of people that lightens a room when he's in it. Generous with praise, generous with time. Hugely valued colleague and friend. Miss you buddy.
There are some people who bring a spark into the workplace—not just through their skills or dedication, but through their presence. Crowbar was one of those people. Every time I visited the New Plymouth office, I genuinely looked forward to seeing him. There was something grounding and uplifting about his energy—whether it was his sharp wit, his easygoing nature, or the way he made everyone feel like they belonged. He had a way of turning an ordinary day into something memorable, just by being himself. The memories of those visits and the camaraderie we shared will always stick with me. Thanks for being a legend, Crowbar.
I was so saddened to hear of your loss, Chrissie. My thoughts are with you and your daughters. Crowbar was such a pleasure to work with, his infectious smile and laugh will always be remembered. RIP Crowbar
Chrissie and girls, Our thoughts are with you at this saddest time. Crowbar, you held a group of men together, showed them what it meant to be a team, and ensured people enjoyed their rugby, on and off the field! You will sorely missed but remembered with great affection. RIP Crowbar. 💙🤍🐔
Great memories of Crowbar, a great staff member, was a pleasure to be around, always having something witty to say, whenever I walked passed his work desk, he enjoyed a chat and yea that laugh was something else! Was fun being part of his IRD social volleyball team on a Sunday night, then having a discussion next day, how well or not so well, we played! He will be deeply missed by Chrissie and his girls, HUGE condolences to you all and extended family. at this very sad time.
Crowbar will be sadly missed! Such a caring and awesome guy. An honour to have worked with you mate. The world is a better place for having you in it. Love and thoughts to your family in such a difficult time
So heartbroken to hear of Crowbar’s passing. He was truly one of a kind — the kindest soul with the sharpest wit and a laugh that could lift any room. Working with him at IRD was a privilege, and the memories of his humour and warmth will stay with me always. My deepest condolences to Chrissy and his daughters. He will be missed and never forgotten. X
Deepest sympathy to you Denise, Heather & family at this difficult time.
Tukapa legend Crowbar gone way too soon x
Eion and I worked at IRD together. He was a very engaging person and extremely social which was fantastic. You guys are amazing and I know you will miss Eion. He will always want you to be happy at home or wherever you go and whatever you do. My utmost heartfelt sympathy is with you all.
Eoin was larger-than-life. Full of fun, mischief, and unforgettable tmes. A true lovable rogue.An IRD colleague for over 30 years, My deepest condolences to Chrissy, Caitlin and Phoebe. Rest easy, Crowbar — and thanks for the Tukapa souvenirs.
To Eions 3 girls thinking of you all. He was a really really nice guy. Rest easy up in heaven . The Waru family
Sending heartfelt condolences to Crowbars family, friends and workmates. Many social occasions and good times were had. Great memories of the good old days with Crowbar, always the joker. Rest in peace my friend.
Such a funny caring man gone far too soon. Sending love and light to you all at this heartbreaking time.🙏🌺
Thinking of you all. All our Love
Thanks for all the fun and interesting times we had as teenagers. Say hi to Shaunie. No fighting up there or down there, wherever you guys may be. Sending lots of hugs and sympathy to our cousins. Love from Stephen and Deborah Clough xx
Sincere condolences to Crowbar’s family. What an awesome bloke - always the joker! I hope that at this extremely difficult time, the beautiful memories you hold will be of some comfort to you all.
Remembering Eoin today — a great, caring family man. We’ll miss your quirks, dad jokes, and the genuine leadership you brought to our team. We will miss your presence and you won’t be forgotten. Sending all our love, hugs and prayers to you Chrissie, Caitlin and Phoebe ❤️

Funeral service held at Eagars Te Henui Chapel

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