My old mate John. I was 12 when we meet, which makes for a 30 year innings. I’m not exactly sure how we became friends, since our first meeting was you putting chippies in my hair, but somehow we evolved into friends, and there is not many a teenage memory that doesn’t have you attached to it somehow. Many times shared at the Mitchell’s on Sanders Ave, or at your place on Eversleigh. Some might have described you as a bit of a rouge in your youth… but my mum always liked you, and that’s always a good sign. I can remember hiding under the covers of Emma’s bed so you would see the lights on our phones, when you’d come window knocking late at night. I’m glad you did give up on that pursuit, because you went on to grow the one of the strongest loves I’ve known. There’s a lot of heartbreak right now, and we know you didn’t go down without a fight. Your John Lyon. You don’t do things half assed. You can rest easy now my friend, we’ll all do our best to look after your great love. We all love you and the world is a lesser place without you. Moe mai ra x

One of the truly good guys, we will remember him with fondness always: from the young man with toothpaste on pimples, using up all our towels every weekend - to the fine husband, great dad, very great friend to many - a privilege to have known John.

We have fond memories of John as he worked for us in Tauranga. He was a great member of the team and always brought a fun sense of humour to work. From all the team at Linkup Paints, we send out thoughts and condolences to Emma and the family at this incredibly sad time.