We just found out about John's death and are shocked and saddened. He called in to stay the night last year and we reminisced about his witnessing our wedding vows 22 years earlier and working in tertiary chaplaincy in Palmy for four years before that. We will miss him.

We were so sorry to hear of John's passing into glory and extend to you our deepest sympathies. We remember John's wonderful laugh, his wisdom and his warm personality which was extended to all. Colin remembers his kind calm demeanour when he was helping with and discussing the Parish Accounts. Elizabeth remembers his warmth, friendliness, knowledge and ability to connect with anyone. John touched so many lives. John will leave a huge gap in your lives but we know he has gone to be with his Lord. Sending love and Blessings to Gail and family. Elizabeth and Colin

Many memories of a true friend and mentor - a man of God full of wisdom and good humour and love. An inspiration and wonderful support for my husband Stephen and myself as we we embarked on a life of ministry way down South in Balclutha. Much love to and prayers for the family.

To Andrew, Rachael and Joanna. We were so saddened earlier this week to learn of your Dad's passing. All of your family were an integral and very significant part of our lives for many years, both in Invercargill and here in Hamilton. We have been feeling the loss deeply during this week and were very grateful to be able to watch the livestreaming of the funeral. You each spoke wonderfully of your father - as did others. The service was a great acknowledgement and representation of who he was. Our thoughts and prayers are with each of you and Gail as you grieve your huge loss.

Dear Gail I am so sorry for your loss of John. Thank you for the years of loving care you and John provided for the many children that were placed with you over the years. It was truly beautiful to see those children still being part of you and John's lives. May God's peace be with you in these times.

Gail, we at the Te Araroa Manawatu Trust are sorry for the loss of John. TAMT is very appreciative of yours and John’s opening of your home as Trail Angels. You both touch many hearts and have an effect on their lives.

Gail, I'm so sorry for your loss of John, but glad for the 20 happy years that you had with John. It was good to be able to watch the service online, you have both touched many lives. May the happy memories comfort you in the days ahead.

First met John soon after Jill Woods became our Vicar - John -as best I can put it - mentored Jill - and assisted at my darling Russell’s funeral. His love of our Lord and all people was obvious and has always been with me. Thank you John.

Words cannot adequately express the way in which John has blessed me over the past six years as my Spiritual Director. We talked, laughed, prayed and enjoyed each others company in the Lords presence. John will be deeply and dearly missed. Thank you John. We pray for Gods comfort on Gail and the family during this time of grief and loss. Ravi and Mercy David

To Gail, We of the Manawatu Lutheran Parish Pastoral Leadership Team extend to you our sincere sympathy at the passing of John. We got to know, appreciate and experience his wisdom, leadership and pastoral care over recent months. He was a fine example of a Christian man, showing at all times his love and service to our Lord while also serving us. Arthur Wood MLP Chairperson

John my friend.. i love how your smile filled your face and squinted your eyes, how your aroha filled the room and yes, your shirts were the colour of loud. We are the lesser without your presence in our lives.

John, you took me and my brothers in when we were 6,5 and 3. You and Gail opened up your home and provided us a safe place after our lives had been turned upside down although we were only with you guys for a short time, your impact has lasted even 13 years later. I will forever be grateful for what you guys did for us and you will always hold a special place in my heart. Till we see each other again. - with love, Tsarine

To my friend John, we have walked together for many years as fellow Pastors/Ministers in the City. However our connection goes way back to attending Kings High School in Dunedin where we often biked there together! You were a wonderful person and great church leader, but most of all a good friend. I will miss you and the friendship we had over the years. For you John, death is not extinguishing the light, but putting out the lamp because the dawn has come