John KENNEDY Obituary

John's family wish to thank the many people involved with his treatment and care following his cancer diagnosis. Professor Frizelle, Christchurch, you got John through two surgeries plus chemo and radio therapy, his life was good for a time. Surgical teams and I.C.U. staff of Timaru and Christchurch hospitals plus St John Ambulance and Westpac Helicopter crew were there as his health deteriorated. A special thank you to the Cancer Society who helped John many times with travel arrangements and accommodation, he spoke so highly of your work. We sincerely thank family, friends and neighbours for their support during a difficult time. Flowers, phone calls, hot scones, and cards were much appreciated. Many people travelled distances for the funeral, to the people who spoke sharing amazing stories, thank you. Thank you Shelley for guiding us through funeral arrangements, we even shared some laughs. Wendy, John asked that you officiated for him and you did a perfect job before and on the day. Many many thanks to Geoff and Anne, July 1st will take on a new meaning come the future. To Phill, it can't have been easy first speaking the joining Jendy and your backing group to sing the very moving Waiata, I'm not sure how you did it Phill, but to see the shearers and the Zingari men with blades and arms raised to honour JK was an emotional sight and the perfect ending to John's farewell. Thank you all.

I must go down to the seas again, for the call of the running tide, a wild call and a clear call that may not be denied, and all I ask is a windy day with the white clouds flying and the flung spray and the blown spume with the seagulls crying.