What struck me from the moment I met Uncle John was his welcoming embrace and generosity. Soon after Angela and I got married (some 22 years ago), I had the honour and privilege to receive a garland from Uncle John and Aunty Miriam as they welcomed me into their home! They remain the only people to have ever done this and it will be etched into my memory forever. Uncle John and I became firm friends. We shared a love of good food, barbecues in particular, and I must mention his legendary roast dinners. The roasts were done to perfection every time and he took great pride in hosting and feeding people. Our enjoyment was his enjoyment. Uncle had a great sense of humour and he was the life of the party, always ready to get on the dance floor. We shared some wonderful moments over the years. One such occasion was a Christmas party some years back. After much drink, fun and frivolity an impromptu karaoke session ensued, much to the bemusement and ridicule from all those present! It went down in the annals of our family history as ‘that Christmas party’! I hold this memory close to my heart! I will always remember Uncle John’s warm smile, loving embrace, generosity and his love of life. He was hard working and successful, had a love of travel and the great outdoors and he was a consummate family man. Our thoughts turn to Aunty Miriam, Mohan, Thiona, Simon and Oshen at this difficult time but we will always be here for them. That is the best way we can honour Uncle’s memory. A big personality, a big loss. Forever in our hearts.