I've only just spotted this thread, and sorry to see the news, though far from unexpected.
I only ever met John during his great workshop clearance, when quite a bit of his kit moved to my own workshop over in Buxton. I do somehow feel I won't be able to do it justice, though it's all be useful so far; 35 years with a lathe and I still have still much to learn.
He struck me as a genuine, and quite generous guy, both with his time and knowledge; as Dek said above, I guess he could be quite forthright in the way he expressed his views.
I'm sure he will be missed by many, me included.
Bill