That's sad to hear. It's been a while now since I was flying at North Weald but as someone said earlier, he was very much a part of the furniture there.
Sad news-, I think we all missed him when he retired due ill health.-He seemed to know even casual visitors by name--always helpful, and always cheerful. A really nice man.
Indeed a lovely man who will be missed. He accompanied me on a local bimble late last year which he really enjoyed. It seemed to give him a bit of a respite from all his illness woes even if for only 30 minutes or so.
John was very hardworking and was always there to refuel regardless of heat or freeze. We always had a good chat and swapped many stories which I will miss but always cherish. He could empty a hangar of aircraft singlehandedly. He knew the best way to start a tricky engine including Spitfire. A really genuine character who was always helpful and cheery, May he truly rest in peace