Francis Tipene

Date of Death: 12 March 2000

Resting Place - Nga Whare Waatea Marae

“Francis Tipene “He walks people home with love.” Francis Tipene is a name synonymous with compassion, culture, and community. As the co-founder and face of Tipene Funerals, Francis has helped reshape the way Aotearoa approaches farewell and remembrance — bringing dignity, humour, and deep tikanga Māori into every ceremony he touches. Raised in Auckland and grounded in te ao Māori, Francis leads with wairua. Together with his wife Kaiora, he built a service that honours life, uplifts whānau, and respects every story. Their journey captured hearts across the motu through the acclaimed series The Casketeers, where viewers saw not just funeral work — but love in action. Francis is known not only as a funeral director, but as a cultural guide, a storyteller, and a kaitiaki of sacred moments. His leadership and authenticity have inspired generations to view grieving through a lens of aroha, respect, and resilience. A proud husband and father, Francis continues to serve, teach, and uplift — leaving a legacy not just in business, but in the hearts of those he’s helped along the way. “E kore koe e warewaretia – You will never be forgotten.”“