John Lynch, a Parnell treasure, passes away
A familiar face will be greatly missed

John Lynch was a cheerful familiar face around Parnell. He died of cancer at the age of 85, early yesterday morning. John lived in Parnell with his wife Mary, and for 45 years rarely left his beloved neighbourhood.

John described himself as a roustabout, working for Les Harvey from pre-Parnell Village days as a maintenance man, checking up on the buildings - work he kept up, albeit in a reduced capacity, until early in 2008 when he tripped and broke his hip.

In his year-round beanie and almost year-round thick sweaters, John was a happy and courteous presence - often to be spotted greeting all comers from "his" bench outside The Diamond Boutique, where he spent many hours over the past ten years talking with owner Karen Scott. "He was an amazing gentleman," Karen said. “Even when he was on crutches, he would always stand up to greet you."

John loved being part of Parnell, and was one of those people who quietly make Parnell the wonderful community that it is. He never forgot a face or a name and was always delighted to greet you on the street and hear your news. He had a lovely sense of humour, and would laugh until he cried.

His passions were Mary, his beloved wife of more than 48 years, and Parnell; also his well-loved beanie (which hid a full head of dark hair - one of John's best kept secrets) and date scones.

John was a lovely gentle man and he will be greatly missed by many. A very modest and private soul, John did not wish to have a funeral service and his family is honouring this. However a gathering in John's memory may yet be organised. We'll send out details if this happens.