John WHELAN Obituary

John Whelan was housemaster of School House when I started in 1956 and was very much a father figure and role model for our boarding house.
John was also Master in Charge of Rowing which involved a lot of work and organising at the expense of his home life.John introduced me to rowing and in what has become a life long interest and spent many hours coaching our crew and many others on the Tamaki.Thankyou John for your great work and memories.Deepest sympathy to Roberta and family.

It is sad to learn of the passing of John Whelan. I was a member of the Kings College Swimming team from 1978 to 1982 and remember the time and dedication that John gave to the swimming teams in some of the most successful times that the college enjoyed. I had a number of trips away to various swimming meets, which were fronted and supervised by John and always remain fond memories. My condolences to the Whelan family.
Tony Kidd

John was a great mentor to me as a young teacher at King's through the 60's and 70's particularly when I shared my teaching part time with Prep. School and he was always available and willing to get me up to speed with the daily routines at the College. My sincere sympathy to Roberta and family.
Max Jackson

I was a young teacher at St Paul's Collegiate in Hamilton and got to know John through a mutual interest in swimming. His team from Kings and mine often battled each other in the 70's and 80's in most enjoyable, keenly fought contests. In these contests, I knew John as a thorough gentleman - quiet, sincere and with little time for triviality. He took time to encourage me and I hold his memory very fondly. My condolences to his family on the loss of one of life's real gentleman. Graham Campbell

WHELAN, John Allison The Board of Governors, Headmaster and staff of King's College sadly note the passing of John Allison Whelan, who gave 34 years of loyal service to King's College and its students during his time as a teacher, coach, mentor and Deputy Headmaster. John will be remembered with fondness for his dedication, integrity and true generosity of spirit. John, you made a difference to so many young lives and for this we are deeply grateful. Our thoughts are with the Whelan family.

WHELAN, John Allison (John) Loving son of the late John and Rhoda Whelan and brother of the late Kathleen Shaw and Joyce Beresford. Dearly loved father and father-in-law of John and Lyn (Tauranga). Admired and respected by Scott, Ross and Alix Stephen. To live in the hearts of those we love, is not to die.