Stewart McKenzie Couchman

5 September 194222 August 2025

COUCHMAN, Stewart McKenzie (MBE, JP retired):

W39488, NEWZAD, V5, 1970. With great sadness that we acknowledge the passing of Stewart at Nelson Street Care Home, Feilding. In his 83rd year. He was the beloved husband of Christine. The father of  Aaron (deceased), and Kirsten. Father-in-law of Peter. Much loved by his grandchildren Kaitlyn, Siobhan, Jayden, and Brennan. Loved brother of Ann, Gay, and Linda. Uncle of Melita, Felix, Otto, and Genevive. Loved and respected friend to many.

Stewart will be at his home in Feilding until his funeral.  

Messages for the Couchman family, c/- PO Box 5191, Palmerston North 4441. A service for Stewart will be held in Cotton’s Chapel, 697 Main Street, Palmerston North, on Friday 29th August 2025 at 1pm.

Tributes

So sorry I couldn't be there. A wonderful send off from you all to a wonderful man. Thinking of you all as you return to everyday life xxx

Angela Sheppard

For Me , Stewart's passing is a disaster. I met Stew' on His return to Waiouru from Vietnam. WE practiced Judo together with the Waiouru Judo club, 71-73. He was a strong wiry tall Guy who was difficult to get the better of. He was a very caring individual. We got to know one and other and for me, it was like having an older Brother. He was my head Instructor on an M41 Gunners coarse in early 70's. A number of visits to the Family home at Linton. A few runs together. I really treasure any time I had with Stew' and will certainly miss His company. I know Life has been challenging in the last few years. He never complained. RIP my Friend. Love to Christine and Family

Dennis Hobbs (Jack)

Sorry we couldn't be there, we watched the service it was wonderful. We loved the stories that family and friend told. Love to you all Sue and Lloyd

Sue and Lloyd McCarthy

RIP Sgt. A perfect gentleman, and a great Soldier. You were our father figure during a hard year, and you were always highly respected by all who served with you. We have a Reunion coming up next March in Palmy and we will miss you but always Remenber you Our most sincere condolences to Christine and the Family. Alan Sherris

Alan Sherris

I first met Stu as a youngster at Duntroon. What an impressive figure for us all. He cared, he took the time to help us, and he was acknowledged by us Kiwis and our Aussie friends as one of the best. His infectious smile warmed my heart for many years, always with a good word and always being respected and liked by all he worked with. Condolences to his family, he was a great man. RIP

James Thomson

A man of impeccable standards and a tremendous heart for young people. A role model to several hundred Regular Force Cadets - forever known as Dad. Roger Kidd, McKinnon Class 1979 -80. Fortes Fortuna Juvat

Roger Kidd

Hard, fair and a true leader. I’m glad I experienced first hand on many occasions his guidance at Duntroon particularly when my father passed away. A great man. Condolences to his family. Vale Stew.

Roger Emmerson

Our thoughts are with you all today. Brilliant service watched remotely. From the Sinclair’s, previously of Linton Camp & Kendals Line, now in Nelson.

The Sinclair family

The passing of Stu Couchman is very sad news. My sincere condolences to Stu's family. He was a man of great stature and reputation at the Royal Military College Duntroon. He was very funny on the drill square and he masked his wicked sense of humour with a ferocious demeanour. He is well remembered by all who knew him. May he rest in peace. Dr Ian Wing, Staff Cadet at RMC Duntroon 1978-81

Dr Ian Wing

WO2 Couchman was universally respected by Kapyong company cadets as a strong and disciplined leader who demanded high standards from everyone, and especially himself. He also showed a dry sense of humour and real concern for his charges’ welfare. That he is much discussed to this day among us when we gather is a measure of his lasting impact on our development as leaders. Vale.

Matthew McNeill
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