Marshall Robert Smith (32), a farm manager, of Waimate died on October 9 while on a kayaking trip on the Waitaki River near Kurow.
His mother and father, Marjorie and Robert Smith shared stories of their son's life and his partner spoke of the future they had planned together.
Mourners travelled from all over the world, some coming from as far away as Canada, France and Australia to show their respect.
Mrs Smith told the tale of how Mr Smith kept a wild boar in the freezer, uncovered, intending to one day build a hangi, instead leaving it for his non-meat eating partner to see it every time she needed to access the freezer.
Later on when the two were out of the house the freezer ended up defrosting, leaving a thawed pig to clean up.
She also spoke of Mr Smith's life achievements and travels.
``Marshall may have lived for a short time, but boy did he pack a lot of experience into it.
``[Marshall] was such a huge presence.''
His partner spoke of how she and Mr Smith were just beginning their life journey together. ``I'm sorry we didn't have time to make babies for your mini cricket team.''
She spoke of how not many people in life found love and how lucky she was to have found Mr Smith.
Mr Smith was captain of the Kurow Rugby Club and played cricket for Glenavy and Albion.
Kurow coach Kevin Malcolm told the crowd of mourners about the positive impact Mr Smith had on the club and what a loss his death was.
``This just shouldn't be bloody happening.''
He told Mr Smith's family and his partner they could always find support from the club and the Kurow community, reflecting on the generosity and hospitality he said Mr Smith displayed to others.
``Marshall had a real knack of making people feel welcome at the club.
``We were very lucky Marshall had time for rugby.''
Glenavy Rangers cricket team captain Ross McCulloch spoke of Mr Smith's ability to keep the team together and strong as well as his form during last year's senior reserve title win.
``Marshall gained 102 not out. He came in after the innings and was a bit puffed. He wanted to bowl and we were struggling to get wickets. He got five wickets which in cricket is the best ... figures you can hope for. He literally won the game for us. It was a big night.''
