The 82 year-old lifesaver joined North Cronulla SLSC in 1953 and did his Bronze Medallion in 1954.
He was an instructor and examiner and held numerous positions within his club, branch and State Centre, including club President, State Superintendent and State Team Manager.
He was made a Life Member of his beloved North Cronulla club in 1968 and Life Member of Sydney Branch in 1981. In the mid-1980s John was a Delegate to National Council and sat on a number of State advisory committees.
In later years John and his wife Joan left Sydney and owned a hobby farm in the NSW Riverina. More recently they sold the farm and relocated to a retirement village in Cooma.
Despite being less involved in Surf Life Saving, John was a regular visitor to the State and Aussie Championships in recent years where he enjoyed catching up with many old mates and fellow members. Receiving his 60 Years Long Service Award a few years ago marked a lifetime contribution to Surf Life Saving.
John suffered ill health for a number of years and the thoughts of all surf lifesavers are with his wife Joan, his children and grandchildren at this sad time.