It is with profound sadness that Lutheran Care announces the passing of its Chief Executive Officer, Rohan Feegrade. Rohan died peacefully in the early hours of Sunday 22 June, surrounded by his family, following a courageous battle with a rare and aggressive form of cancer.
Rohan’s passing marks the loss of a bold South Australian leader and advocate for social justice and child protection reform. A trusted collaborator and charismatic figure, Rohan had been on extended medical leave for approximately a month, during which time Chief Operations Officer Percy Henry was appointed Acting CEO.
Despite the personal challenges of his illness, Rohan’s commitment to Lutheran Care and the people it serves never wavered. In a poignant reflection of his dedication, he left the ICU to attend the organisation’s 2025 Gala Dinner at Adelaide Oval in late May. Unable to address the audience himself, emcee Brenton Ragless delivered a message on his behalf about the purpose that drove him, and the resilience he saw mirrored in the lives of the people Lutheran Care supports every day.
“What many people may not have known was the extent to which Rohan understood what it meant to fight through adversity,” said Acting CEO Percy Henry.
“His compassion, belief in human dignity, and unwillingness to give up on himself or others inspired all of us who had the privilege to work with him.”
Appointed CEO in 2018, Rohan led Lutheran Care through a time of great challenge and growth. From the 2019 bushfire crisis to the COVID-19 pandemic and the current housing and cost-of-living pressures, he was a steady, visionary force who led with courage and conviction.
At many leadership meetings, Rohan often reminded his team: “Growth doesn’t come from playing it safe; it comes from being brave enough to imagine something better and bold enough to make it happen.” This ethos defined his leadership and Lutheran Care’s remarkable growth over the past five years.
Under Rohan’s stewardship, the organisation transformed into a multifaceted service provider supporting people across homelessness, foster care, family and domestic violence, financial wellbeing, allied health, and disability services.
He championed innovation and sustainability, advocating for diversified revenue streams to strengthen crisis services, reduce reliance on government funding, and allow for reinvestment in frontline impact.
“Under his leadership, Lutheran Care embraced innovation, deepened partnerships, and created bold new paths forward,” said Board Chair Sylvia Andersons.
“His vision helped position Lutheran Care as a resilient, future-ready organisation, with sustainability and purpose at its core.”
In 2024, Lutheran Care was named South Australia’s Not-for-Profit of the Year at the Premier’s Business and Export Awards, in recognition of its bold vision and commitment to community-centred solutions. That same year, the organisation was also a national finalist at the Australian Marketing Awards for its Be the Village foster care campaign, which offered a different lens to the experience of fostering, with a focus on the mutual joy and rewards of welcoming a child into a home.
Rohan was immensely proud of this recognition for the Lutheran Care team, for pushing boundaries, driving innovation, and delivering outstanding results for the people we support.
Rohan was also instrumental in the creation of the Toward Home Alliance, a groundbreaking partnership that secured a $15 million State Government tender to reform homelessness services in South Australia. This work continues to expand, with Lutheran Care set to deliver new services in Katherine and Darwin later this year.
Equally passionate about the wellbeing of children and young people, Rohan was active in his advocacy efforts for substantial changes to the South Australian Child Protection Reform, to improve outcomes for families and vulnerable young people for years to come.
“Rohan led Lutheran Care with heart and integrity,” said Sylvia Andersons.
“He was a driving force behind initiatives that will benefit thousands for years to come.
“His legacy lives on not just in what he built, but in how he led – with authenticity, strategic foresight, and deep compassion.”
While the loss of Rohan is deeply felt, Lutheran Care remains strong and united in purpose. Percy Henry continues in the role of Acting CEO, supported by the Board and a highly experienced Executive and Senior Leadership team.
“We continue to support one another and draw strength from the culture Rohan helped shape,” said Percy Henry.
“We recognise everyone will process this loss differently. Staff wellbeing is a priority, and additional support measures are in place for all staff, volunteers and those affected.”
Board Chair Sylvia Andersons added, “We will honour Rohan’s legacy by continuing the mission he championed: walking alongside those doing it toughest, with integrity, purpose and hope.
“The Board and Executive remain closely aligned to ensure continuity across our strategy and services.
“We would like to thank the South Australian community for their messages of support and continued partnerships as we reflect on and celebrate the extraordinary life of a truly remarkable leader.”
Rohan is survived by his beloved wife Julia and two daughters. The thoughts of everyone at Lutheran Care are with his family during this heartbreaking time.
At the request of Rohan before his passing and in line with his family’s wishes, anyone who would like to honour Rohan’s memory is invited to:
- share a message or reflection on the Memorial Board
- consider making a donation to support Lutheran Care’s work with vulnerable people – a cause deeply close to his heart via the dedicated page here.
A celebration of life for Rohan will be held at 1pm on Tuesday, 1 July at the Adelaide Oval’s Magarey Room. It will also be livestreamed.
“It’s bittersweet to pass on the custodianship of this organisation. But I do so with complete confidence and an open heart, knowing that the work we’ve done together has created something lasting and good.”
Rohan Feegrade, in his last message to staff 13/06/2025
