With great sadness I have only just heard about the passing of this very special man (ams I believe his dear wife Marion too?) . I had known John and Marion since my youth as close friends of my parents. John was always at family occasions such as christenings, marriages, anniversaries and deaths. He was at my 21st birthday party, officiated at my first marriage ceremony and at my children's christenings. I sent him a Christmas card for decades and saw him on visits to Solihull. The last time was about three years ago when we met for lunch. I was on my last visit after sorting my father's house after his death. John and I continued to write some emails for a while. He was such a gentle and caring person who always imparted positivity and genuine warmth whatever the situation. A great loss. My sincere condolences to his family.

I'll forever miss our chats John! You never judged and were so reassuring, you became such a good friend to me, always emailing me, sharing love and kindness, sending me cards while I was in Ireland! I definitely feel a massive void without you, you were the very best! Feel so grateful to have had you in my life! Trish, Simon, Henry & Louis xxxx

The poem I wrote for Grandpa, & read out on Monday. ❤ We did not know that morning that God would call your name, You devoted your life to him, Now in death by his side you remain, So many loved you dearly, It has broken our hearts to see you go, Now you can rest in peace, God has finally called you Home, You have given us all so many memories, We will all treasure forever, Though we cannot see you, We shall always feel your love through our life's endeavours, It feels empty now you're gone, However, it won't be for too long, We will walk hand in hand again, When God calls us to the heavens above one by one.