John FAY Obituary

John was my boss when I managed his bookstore at Victoria Park Market back in the mid eighties. He gave me the freedom to stamp my enthusiasm on the place and taught me the ropes of running a business. He was a big guy with an even bigger heart and a loud and frequent laugh and I am forever indebted to him. The Hard to Find Bookshop I built up afterwards would never have happened without his encouragement and influence. We are all richer for knowing him, and poorer without him in this world

John, we had such a great St Pats day at O´Hagens, your Waiheke mates were late, they wouldn´t let me in without a table - so there we were, you recounting the history of St Mary´s & Herne Bay. We´ll miss your laugh, condolences to your family

Rest in peace Johnny, I will always remember your vibrant personality & warm smile. It's been years - lest we forget.

good freestyle but butterfly needs work.great memories john.great wines and thanks for your hospitality rest in peace kind regards. Gerry Kennedy.

Michael,Cathy and the Fay family,

Vale Johnny Fay

Anne -Marie and I were very saddened to learn of Johnny's passing. We were aware that his health had been indifferent in recent times but always expected he would reappear larger than life.
I personally met Johnny infrequently on GMI and elsewhere but always thoroughly enjoyed his company.  He had a warm friendly personality and the famous Fay story telling gift that revealed his Irish roots. The wonderful stories he told were always recounted with great humour and showed him to be a keen observer of the foibles and frailties of all of us humans!
Johnny was a "one off" character who touched many lives.  He was a generous family man with a great set of values and he will be sorely missed.
I am sure that in time the sadness we all now feel will be replaced by fond memories of a decent man who lived life to the full.
Warm regards,
Doug Armstrong

A swim to Narni, a rye smile, a generous spirit, John will be remembered at Mawhitipana with love. Annie Melchior.