John HILLIARD Obituary

Dearest Anne and family

Was very shocked to just hear of John's death. A wonderful neighbour to my late mother Betty, and he welcomed me home with open arms when I took on the house in Cathedral Place. Happy memories when he visited London a couple of years ago, and memories of a teenage boy banging the drums at all hours, and of course his late parents Commander Jack, and Florence. I will miss him. My sincere condolences, although somewhat belated.

Very Sorry to hear of the passing of John. He was a a grand teacher to many drummers and we were pleased to have many of them compete at the Waipu Highland Games. John was always a prominent figure on the Pipe Band scene when I lived in Auckland many years ago. May He Rest in Peace.
Brian O'Brien
Life Member Waipu Caledonian Society and Pipes & Drums of the Signals.

Dear Anne and family,
I was very saddened to hear of your loss at band practice last week.
I was so pleased when John offered to tutor me on the snares and grateful that he gave his time so freely at a period when he must have been feeling terrible. Thank-you for welcoming me into your home.
My condolences to you all - take special care of yourselves and each other.
Warm regards
Meredith

To John's Family,

I have known John for many years through our various organisations in the stainless steel business. He was at different times a colleague, supplier and competitor. Such a civilized man; kind, thoughtful, learned and curious. And with an absolutely wicked sense of humour! He always seemed able to highlight the ridiculous. Wonderful emails and chats in person and by phone. His fabulous laugh will live on!

My deepest condolences on your loss.

Dear Anne, Chris and Andrew,

I have had a long association with John as a pipe band member since the early 1980's. I have always had a lot of respect for John and his skills with the drumming core and writing the drumming scores.

Myself and Patrick are so glad that John could come with the band to Lorient, France last year.

Jean Buddle (piper)

John was a great teacher. He understood discipline and encouragement and balanced them both very well. I'm blessed with the mark he left on my life. His willingness to put time and effort into band members and friends was a gift to all of us. I can surely say I would not be who I am today without his caring input into my life.

I feel honoured to have known John for only a short time with the City of Auckland Pipe Band Enjoyed his company and advice in Brittany Sincere condolences to all the family
Dr Kathy McDonald

Dear Ann, Chris & Andrew,
Such a wonderful service yesterday for John, he will be sadly missed.
I am so glad he was able to join CAPB in Lorient last year and play in the festivals finale.

To John's family,

I feel very honoured today to attend the funeral to farewell John representing my parents Ross and Jocelyn Wilson who sadly cannot attend. I know my parents will be thinking of John today who has been a very dear friend for many years.

I have only known John a short time when I joined the N.Z.Stainless Steel association. The executive spoke highly of his ability and contribution to our industry. A true gentleman that will be missed by us all. Thoughts are with his family. Steve Scott - Chairman NZSSDA.

My Deepest Sympathy to John's Family. I have many happy memories of my times judging with John at New Zealand National Pipe Band Championships. He was a lovely man and will be sadly missed by us all.

Rest in Peace my dear friend.

HILLIARD, John. On 8 May 2017. Loved and respected cousin of Bruce, Julie, Margaret, Miriam and Murray. Will be sadly missed.