John passed away in the Winara Retirement Home hospital in Waikanae, north of Wellington. He had struggled with his health for a couple of years. He leaves behind his wife Tina. I first met John in 1993 when he recruited me from the RAF to replace him in his position in Wellington. Before returning to NZ he had served in the RAF for 16 years. I did not know that he had flown in the Falklands war. He had also spent time in the RNZN after leaving school before joining the RNZAF as an Air Signaller.
Thank you John for giving me the opportunity to come to NZ. I am sure you are now happily sitting in Heavens Scruffs Bar talking to all your old mates. Have one on me mate and RIP.