Mr Keddell (69), a long-time Milton lawyer and senior partner at Sumpter Moore, will step back from the workforce but will remain a part of the community.
He said he hoped to spend more time on his music interests and is a keen novice golfer. He lives in Waihola with wife Pam.
''I didn't want to work past 70. It's a chance for me to have time to myself.''
Born in Alexandra, Mr Keddell attended school in the town until achieving school certificate at the end of the fifth form. He then went to Otago Boys' High School in Dunedin as a boarder, before taking up law studies at the University of Otago.
He began practising law in 1966 at Reid, Rutherford and Sumpter, a Milton-based law firm.
The firm retained its name until 1989, becoming Sumpter Moore with offices in Milton and Balclutha.
''I've only worked in this firm ... we're a rural practice really - mostly rural conveyancing and estate work.''
''I enjoy working with people - particularly with a practice like this when you're working with families and generations of families.''
Partner Kerry Dowling said Mr Keddell was a huge part of the South Otago community.
Mr Keddell also served the Clutha district as a coroner for 25 years, until the introduction of one coroner for the Otago-Southland area.
''I remember receiving a phone call from the judge asking me to be the coroner. It was the last thing I expected.''
Mr Keddell began as Milton's coroner in 1982, and later took on Balclutha inquests when that town's coroner retired. Eventually, he heard inquests from all over the Clutha district, from the bridge at Henley to south of Clinton and inland to West Otago and Millers Flat.
''It was a big area, and everything was much more personal then.''
Outside work, Mr Keddell is passionate about music and is a long-standing member of the Royal Dunedin Male Choir, of which he is deputy conductor.
He also plays piano for musicals and shows in Milton and Balclutha and has even conducted small shows while playing piano.
''Conducting is the best seat in the house ... it's quite thrilling.''
South Otago Theatrical Society committee member Irene Mosley said Mr Keddell had a long association with the group.
He had his first role as a cast member in 1968, and rejoined the society in 1988 as a cast member, pianist and solicitor.
''He's such an enthusiastic person, and wonderful on the piano. He's a valued member of our society.''
Mr Keddell said he was proud of his involvement in the restoration of Milton's Coronation Hall, and was one of the founders of the Milton Community Health Trust.
