Rest in peace in Heaven John! There are so many happy memories from over the years which we will keep and remember you by with love! You will be missed by your family but always remembered for your mischievous antics and kind heart towards us! All our love xxxx

Thank-you for 55 years of friendship. Love Linda Hodgson

Dear John, Today, I feel a deep sadness knowing that you're no longer with us, but at the same time, I am filled with gratitude for having had the privilege to share so many life-changing moments with you that will forever be etched in our hearts. Since that April 13th, 2003, when I arrived in Manchester, I never imagined I would find such a special family like yours, in a faraway place, yet so close to our hearts. Carmen and I remember our first meeting with you as if it were yesterday. A small man, with a huge smile, shorts, and a tank top, coming to greet two complete strangers with a "Hello, my name is Juan Pedro." Your kindness, your infinite patience as you dealt with my limited English, and your generosity captivated us from the very first moment. The Northenden neighborhood, the shared garden, the parties around the fire... all those moments gave us a sense of home in such a distant place, and it was all thanks to you, our patriarch, always ready to lend a hand. I hold dear the memories of when Carmen and I moved into that little apartment across from your house. Our English still improving, we were struggling to get by, sometimes without enough money for the bus, but you never left us alone. Who could forget those pots of food you’d leave at our door when you knew we’d be late from work? That wasn’t just about solving hunger—it warmed our souls. We didn’t just share food and laughter. We shared moments of emotion, fear, and bravery. Like that time when a group of teenagers attacked us to rob us, and you, without a second thought, stepped in to defend us. When they saw you, they ran off, as if your presence alone commanded respect. I will always remember how my family, when they came to visit, felt so welcomed in your home. The dinners with Suzanne, the "Spanglish" we all spoke, and that mutual affection that didn’t need translation. It was a true privilege to meet your family, to experience your generosity, your love for life, and for others. And although March 17th, 2004, when I received the news of the death of my Little sweetheart’s mother, was a day of great sorrow, I will never forget how you, along with Suzanne, helped me find comfort, even from afar. As I write these words today, I feel deep sadness, but also immense gratitude. Thank you, John, for being part of our lives, for showing us what it truly means to be generous and human. I’m sure many, like us, will feel fortunate to have known you and shared even a small part of our lives with you. Sending you a big hug, dear friend, wherever you are. Always in our hearts. With all our love, Cristian and Carmen