John GARDNER Obituary

I knew John as a fellow staff member at Massey University over many years and was particularly appreciative of his support when I first joined the staff. More recently I have enjoying talking to John at meetings of the Forest & Bird Society about the many trips he made over the Gorge Track and of his interest in the many birds there. He was a good colleague. My sincere condolences to his family and friends.

Beyond sharing a common agricultural interest, one of the notable benefits of IFMA is the opportunity to engage with distinguished individuals from across the globe. During our very first attendance of an IFMA congress in Hungary, John, and his late wife Jan, warmly welcomed Beth and me, making us feel truly appreciated as part of the IFMA community.
A privilege to have known.

John and I met years ago at an International Farm Management Association Congress (IFMA). We became friends and colleagues as we enjoyed pre- and post-Congress tours and the Congresses. This photo is of John and myself on the Bluenose II, in Canada, in 2015. John always made me think of things from a different perspective. I am better for it. John will be missed, he was a good man and friend.

The Searancke family had a long conection with the Gardner family,as my auntie Molly married uncle Bern, so I had a lot to do with the family in my early days.A large loving family. One memory I still recall is John and Graeme introducing me to my 1st bottle of beer at 9yrs old, I was as silly as a chook in no time. Good memories of this wonderful family.Thanks for the memories.

Dear John.
Your kind and caring attitude will always be cherished. Your contribution and sense of humour kept our tennis club going. Aum Shanti Aum (peace for ever).

John had been an active member of Awapuni Tennis Club in Newbury Street, Palmerston North from around the turn of the century until mobility issues led to his retirement from the game around four years ago.

John was the club's treasurer from 2003 to 2017, carrying out those duties with aplomb. He continued to contribute to the club in the years following, and would come down to visit us even when unable to play. He was made a life member in 2023.

John will be remembered for his trademark shots that would hit the net and just bounce over into the opponents' half.

He will be much missed by all those who knew and played tennis with John over the years.

Rest in peace John.