RIP John_in_Brum_UK

Hopefully the regulars on this branch will remember John_in_Brum_UK and his helpful posts based on his experiences self driving through Africa. I got to know him personally when we coincidentally found we were volunteering through the same organisation. We met up on several occasions and enjoyed a few pints together, trading stories of our travels. He was a true adventurer and lover of Africa.

This morning I received an email from John's account from his brother, stating the following (edited for privacy)-

It is with deep sadness and regret that I am writing to inform you that my brother, John, passed away a few days ago.

John was diagnosed with intestinal cancer earlier this year, and despite a period of chemotherapy, the cancer was too aggressive, and the treatment proved to be in vain.

John only told a few close friends and family of his condition, as he did not wish people to see or treat him any differently during his illness. In the end, he passed away very peacefully, surrounded by his family, at the [edited] Hospice.

For those that wish to join us, we will be saying our goodbyes to my brother at [edited]. In line with his wishes, this will be a short and simple humanist ceremony, with no “get together” after the event itself.

John asked that those that do attend should not wear dark or sombre attire, and that the ceremony be treated as a celebration of a life, rather than as mourning the passing of one. He also asked that instead of sending flowers, people might make a small donation to the [edited] Hospice, who cared for him so beautifully in his last days.

I know that John had so many friends and acquaintances; I do hope you will forgive me for not contacting you individually. Ever thoughtful, John had set up this “mailing list” in his google account so that we could easily contact everyone after he had passed away.

I would also be grateful if you could pass on the sad news, and details of his farewell, to anyone else you feel might wish to know.

Edited by: Yersinia, to correct formatting