Teariki Akaroa, originally of the Cook Islands, and his 2-year-old granddaughter died after the blaze at their Dunford St property in Rakaia.
The 2-year-old died in hospital on Sunday afternoon. A Givealittle fundraiser for Akaroa's family had raised $4205 as of Wednesday.
His former employer, Anzco Foods, told the New Zealand Herald he always had a "big smile" when he was at work.
"This news has come as a tremendous shock to everyone at Anzco Foods Rakaia," plant manager Dallas Woodford told the Herald.
"TK was a highly respected and much-liked team member who formed many strong friendships."
He had worked for Anzco for 10 years.
Woodford said he would be remembered for his "warm personality, great sense of humour, and the genuine care he showed to those around him".
"TK arrived at work with his trademark boom box blaring from the car - something the team will miss dearly.
"He had strong connections with our Canterbury site, and our colleagues there are equally devastated by this news.
"Our thoughts are with TK’s family, friends and colleagues as they navigate this heartbreaking loss.”
The fundraising page said "every little bit will help them get back on their feet after such a really hard loss".
"My daughter, granddaughter and grandson have just lost their partner, dad and the family dog to a house fire on Rakaia.
“They have lost everything they have. There were no insurance policies in place at the time."
The family dog was also killed in the fire.
"I am the mum, and nana, and want to try and help them build their lives back up after losing their main provider," the Givealittle page said.
Tributes have been left at the property where Akaroa died.
Emergency services arrived to find Akaroa dead at the property and the child in a critical condition.
