A large turnout is expected at today's funeral for Ashburton firefighter Barry Keen.

The 52-year-old volunteer died on Wednesday morning when a he was struck on the head by a burning branch. He was helping to contain a burn off at Willowby. His colleagues' attempts to revive him were unsuccessful and he died at the scene.

Mr Keen's funeral is being held at St Stephen's Anglican Church in Ashburton.

Mayor Bede O'Malley will deliver a eulogy on behalf of the community.