Sending much love to Bev and family. Michael, Mell and Kalarni xx

I had the pleasure of meeting John in Miami when he came to visit. We had a couple of laughs and beers. Hay John see you again riding on our Harley's. Thank you all for letting me join you all. Luke, Simon much love.xx

I was only able to meet John once, while visiting NZ from Canada, but both he and Beverley were so welcoming. I do know, however, know that John helped raise a wonderful son, in Dave, who is a cherished friend by all who meet him. I am also so grateful for how welcoming John was to one of my very best friends, his daughter in law, AJ. My hearts are with the Merrick clan as they honor their patriarch.

When I met dad, we had an instant connection. We loved each other from the first time. I will never forget fighting for the burnt piece of toast or the top/bottom slice of bread, or sipping on rum and cokes talking about times past (dad was not a big drinker, so it was a big deal that he would buy a bottle of rum and enjoy it with me while I was there). Dad had a strong personality, and a soft heart. When Luke and I arrived home the first time I met him, the hug, tears and emotions he gave his son will forever live with me. He was so happy we were there. Dad, until we meet again, save some of those hugs for me. My heart is, and will forever be, with my Merrick family.

My first memories of Uncle John was when Bev brought him out to our farm to meet the first 7 siblings of the Tarrant family. He was incredibly energetic and was often seen riding one of our robust horses, Boxer, who loved to buck you off, but John always loved the challenge. He would jump over the barbed wire fences, competing with his brother in law, Uncle Bernie. Both unscathed by the experience, however, a slight misadventure could have caused irreparable damage to ‘you know where’. John, always brushed it off as he ventured on to another challenge. He loved nature and the great outdoors of the Australian bush land. He really wanted to live in Australia but Bev was loving NZ, so I guess Bev got one of her wishes. Other highlights include John coming across to Sydney to compete in the City2Surf event. We always had a great time when he was here. Lou mentioned about our trip to NZ with Mum. When we travelled to the South Island in John’s car, it had at least 25 different maps of touring NZ and the most vivid memory of the trip was John’s beloved CD collection of ENYA. I think we knew every lyric by the time we returned to Auckland. John was an incredible generous and giving person. He was a wonderful man but behind every great man is an amazing, supportive and encouraging wife. Bev, you have been his wife, soul mate, friend and always there supporting him. We applaud you for your courage and commitment to John. On behalf of all relatives in Australia we send our condolences to you Bev, all our beautiful Merrick cousins and family. We love you all and our lives are so more enriched by having you all in our lives. RIP Uncle John. Tess

Well Johny To my oldest and dearest mate. Karate brought us together back in 1972 and soon you and Bev made me part of your family. It was great popping around after training at night to sit on your front porch with a hot Milo and watch the night sky and watch the stars and the odd satellite skipping across the heavens. I remember once up from Palmy when the clutch on my Ford Escort packed up. No worries in we go to Ford Motors ito visit the parts division where you produced your business card to get the parts for trade price. Waitakare Motors, proprietor….it worked. Then off home to fix my car so I could travel back to Palmy on Monday. That’s the sort of guy you were. “Shirt off your back “ kind of guy. You were a fantastic mate. Our love to Bev the boys, partners and grandchildren. So long my friend. Sayonara

Thank you Mr Merrick for driving me to athletics every Wednesday night and to interclub competitions on the weekends. You had a huge influence on my life and taught me a lot. You did that for so many children, and gave your time freely to train young people. You had such a wonderful and unwavering commitment to our community. Thank you xo

We Tarrants have many fond memories of our Uncle John. I recall when Tess and I brought Mum over to NZ. Uncle John kindly lent us his car and set the speed limit to 100 km per hour. I think John got us confused with our brothers who were known to have a led foot or two. He forgot that Tess and I were and are the Tarrant Angels with our Mum of course. RIP Uncle John. Lots of love to you Aunty Bev and our wonderful Merrick cousins and their families.❤