To all of you that new this great guy I'm sure you will all have your own great stories to tell. To me John was more than a friend, John and his family are more like family to me. We have known each other from a very young age and often spent time round each other's houses. 

We had a common interest in our love for football and all I can say is that it was my honour to play with such a great competitor like him. No matter how much you would be up against it he would roll up his sleeves and give more than any player I ever played with. This was just the way he was, he could do anything he put his mind to and not only that he would be the best at it as we'll. I really did admire him for that and gave us all something to aim for. 

We had a lot of great times together playing football or golf but I think my best memory of John would have to be the trip when we went to Canbrea. We played against some great sides and John who had no sleep what so ever because of all the talking and joking through the night played as if he was as fresh as a daisy. He was always up for a laugh and joke and had such a great smile that would cheer you up just to see it. 

I was looking forward to running the London marathon with you this year, I remember our conversation after your marathon about trying to set a record this year. I am hopefully going to try and attempt a record on your behalf this year. You will run with me. 

As a person he would do anything for you, if you needed a hand to do anything he would always try and do what ever he could for you. The kindest, charming and most genuine man you could ever meet. 

The most important thing in John's life was his family, if you ever talked to him he would keep you on the phone for ages talking about how Callum, Hayden and Owen all were. John was the BEST Dad you would ever find, he was so proud of his boys and loved them so very much. If they had something on he would be there for them. The boys are growing up in to fine young men because of the time they have had with such a great man. If they need anything I will do anything to help. 

John ran the New York marathon for this great charity recently and it would be a great honour to raise money on his behalf to show him what he meant to us. This site will be open for a while as hopefully we will be organising a charity football match later on in the year to raise more money. 

I don't know how to say bye to you but just know you will be with me forever more as you don't forget people like you. John Leonard a true LEGEND. 

Missing you always Tony Barrance

 

Thanks for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page.

Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving – they’ll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they’ll send your money directly to the charity. So it’s the most efficient way to donate – saving time and cutting costs for the charity.