Dear Sandra and Johns family I was so delighted to be able to watch Johns funeral via live stream and see you all grown up. Thank you. I remember John and Sandra coming to NZ when they were young with a few babies. My parents Ralph and Rita were best friends with Ray & Joyce, Reg & Laura( was like my 2nd Mum with A Mary.)Graham,. John & Sandra when they all came to settle in NZ. My memories are camping up north a day trip meeting the Good family on holidays up at Snells Beach? John and Sandra had a batch and speed boat. Johns gift of hospitality shone we were welcomed to picnic with fun laughter joy food and drinks. I remember John shipping us all in relays back n forth to Kawau Island one summer. His Mum loved cups of tea, All these accents Liverpool, Yorkshire, Irish, Cheshire,Welsh accents filled our home almost every weekend. I enjoyed the eulogys you all gave honoring your lovely Dad. Life is all about family togetherness and love. You did your parents proud. I love you all as much as my parents did and regard you as family. May the peace of God that passes all understanding cover you and the holy spirit and your angels protect and guide you as you continue on your individual journeys. God bless you and keep you safe. Give Sandra a big hug kiss from me. Lots of love Sue Wilson Hannah and all my tribe xxxxxx

To Sandra and family, I was thinking of you all just the other day and wondering how you were. I remember Sunday mornings in your home, staying over and all the wonderful meals. I always felt welcome. John was warm and generous, even when I wasn't doing the right thing. He was a great man and will be missed. My thoughts are with you. Love and best wishes.

To Cousin Sandra and family. We were so sorry to hear the news about John and we send our sincere condolences to you all. John was such a lovely man and we are sure he will be greatly missed. Although we live so far away we think about you often and wish we could have been with you at this sad time. Love from Grace, Eric, Diane, Morgan and Owen in the UK.

My Dear Poppa, ❤️ ​Today we say our final goodbyes, but I know your love and spirit are still right here with us. ​I'll never forget one of the last things you said to my cousin and me: "Who's got the latest phone?" Even when you weren't feeling well, you were still thinking about us and what your grandchildren were up to. ​I knew when I saw you last week that it would be the final time. I told you to take care and held your hand tightly. ​Thank you for absolutely everything, Poppa. You will be so deeply missed, but knowing you are resting easy now is a real comfort. 💖

Dearest Sandra, Julie-Ann & Family, Thinking of you all during this difficult time as you grieve the passing of Uncle John — a dearly loved father and treasured family friend. May the love and memories you shared bring you comfort in the days ahead. With much love, Ken & Lyndell Amelianne, Kendal & Helen (Nan)

Dear Sandra & Family Words cannot express our feelings at this sad time. You have lost a loving husband and dad, and so many a great friend. One memory that stands out, was when John flew to England for just 4 days to surprise his friend Herbie for his 80th birthday party, the look on Dads face said it all. Remembering also the many holidays enjoyed in England, NZ and beyond. Then laterly the sight seeing trips he had escorted us girls on in NZ and the catch ups via video calls. John always gave of himself for others, these things are never forgotten. Thinking of you all gathered today in the land of the long white cloud (as John would say) With our love & deepest sympathy Gladys, Shirley, Cheryl & Wendy

Dear Sandra and families. My love and thoughts go out to you all at this time. Have great memories of both your time in Taupo. And are very thankful for your care when I lost my Mum, for regular phones calls and texts etc since. John had a heart and love for others and will be sadly missed. Love hugs Bronnie

Dear Sandra and family members, We share in your sorrow and loss of such a dear and Special man to yourselves and no doubt to many others also. A big loss from Taupo when your folks left but you will be comforted Julie-Anne and Sherwyn (sp?) to have had them come to Hawkes Bay for the last few years. A huge wrench for mum now too..we know Dad helped her so lovingly as her health deteriorated. Sending love and thoughts to you all, Derek & Adele Bird, Dunedin

Our love and sympathy to you all. We have such lovely memories of the trips we did with John and Sandra. John was always a cheerful happy person to be with and we always enjoyed His company.