John Vose
1953 - 2026 | Sheffield
John was a much-loved husband, dad, grandad, brother, uncle, cousin, and friend who is sorely missed. He spent three weeks at St Luke’s before he died and was very grateful for the care he received, he especially enjoyed the wonderful catering and chatting to the lovely hospitality and assistant nursing staff.
John was born and brought up in Wigan, he went to university in Sheffield and then moved to Rochdale to work as a science teacher where he became a deputy head. He was later a head teacher. After he retired he spent a year volunteering with VSO in Ethiopia which he loved.
He had a keen spirit of adventure being a regular climber, caver, hiker, and cyclist. This love of adventure and the outdoors led to many family holidays going all over Europe in the camper van. But he was never happier than when spending time in the west of Ireland during family summer holidays exploring the outdoors or enjoying the craic in the pub!
Never shy of a challenge, he cycled from John o’ Groats to Land’s End raising money for research into Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy and even following his cancer diagnosis he joined the Duchenne Dash cycling from London to Paris for the same cause.
He spent the last ten years of his life back in Sheffield where he had been a student. This allowed him to enjoy spending time in the Peak District as well as playing with his beloved grandchildren!
He was a life-long fan of rugby league, and especially Wigan Warriors, and was able to keep enjoying their performances until the very end at St Luke’s.
John’s death has left a huge hole in our lives but we will remember him for his warmth, generosity, quick wit, and incomparable crossword skills. Please do use the links to share memories and photos of John. There is also a link to donate to St Luke's who provided a place of such comfort to John at the end of his life.
Photos
Thoughts and Donations
£230.00 + £57.50 GiftAid
Donations from John’s funeral/wake
Donated by Barbara A Vose - 22/06/2026
Such a lovely man. Taken too soon. Always loved our chats when I met up with Barbara. Such a cruel illness . 💕💕💕💕
Added by Jackie Abbott - 19/06/2026
£200.00 + £50.00 GiftAid
Donated by Paul Vose - 19/06/2026
My earliest memories of my Uncle John, was him turning up out of the blue and we were still thinking he was cruising around Europe in the camper… (led me to always wanting one). Funnily enough, it always happened to be when Wigan played Saints or another big game of rugby league was on! What a coincidence! The post game feed at 121 Swinley road was an indulgence of Wigan’s finest pies, post game analysis and catching up on the adventures he’s been on. Uncle John was a cheerful person and was always happy to see you. I enjoyed the chats about climbing and cycling, two things I’m passionate about too. He was supportive, kind and a selfless person. His charitable work was a true testament to this, along with his brilliant achievements in challenging events. A true inspiration. He lived his life full of adventures and he was extremely proud of his family. I’m just so glad we all got to celebrate his 70th birthday together for a fantastic weekend. Rip Uncle John.
Added by Stephen Vose - 19/06/2026
£90.00 + £22.50 GiftAid
Love Margaret xx
Donated by Margaret Watkinson - 18/06/2026
To my dearest younger brother, You were always a constant source of pride admiration, and quiet inspiration. Our bond was something rare and special, built on shared moments, understanding, and a connection that words can never fully capture. You had a brilliant mind and always the one who seemed to know the answers in every quiz, curious about the world and eager to understand it. Your love for learning and your well travelled spirit made you someone who saw life with depth and curiosity. But beyond your intelligence, what I will always hold closest is your kindness. You moved through life with a gentle heart, touching people in ways you may not have even realised. I am so proud of you. Im proud of the brother you were, for the way you lived, and for the light you brought into my life and the lives of others. You will always remain with me, in memory, in love, and in the bond we shared that time can never erase. Love always Margaret xx
Added by Margaret Watkinson - 18/06/2026
£25.00 + £6.25 GiftAid
Happy memories of John - possibly the most energetic person we have ever met! - and jolly good fun too. Ros and Don x
Donated by Rosamund Dunlevey - 17/06/2026
Donated by Frances Vose - 17/06/2026
£50.00 + £12.50 GiftAid
We enjoyed John’s company over many weekends in the Lakes and will miss him. Derek, Maggie
Donated by Derek Carline - 17/06/2026
John was always a fantastic cousin to me, despite being some few years older. As a child I was always seriously impressed by his 'chemistry lab' in the cellar of Swinley Road, and he was with me on my (possibly) first ever Wigan game at Central Park. John had a willingness to go down the pub that was without equal! Particular memories are of 5 of us (bored) ( sometimes in the 1980's) Leeds University students pitching up randomly in Hebden Bridge, and John enthusiastically showing us the various pubs of the town. He somehow survived the walk home over a very narrow precipitous edge of a canal bridge 🤦. Thank you Barbara for putting us up for the night and feeding us! Equally, on our more recent trip to Ireland, John's keeness to take me and Jason to the 'pubs behind the shops' was matched only by his enthusiasm to firstly take us cycling for the day to Achill Island ( only to find his favourite cafe closed). We made up for it in Guinness later .... I'll miss you and your enthusiasm for life, your bike, and the pub, terribly, but will continue to be inspired by you, and enjoy the memories. Much love to you all Barbara, Katy and Laurie and all the family. Frances xxx
Added by Frances Vose - 17/06/2026
The only photo I had of John I knew was in my Wedding Album. I searched high and low for it and finally found it yesterday. I have known John since I was 18 and he used to call me ( Mrs Marks and Spencers) He was a brilliant best man and close friend of Chris. I then got to know you Barbara and we have spent many happy hours together when our children were younger. John was a great support at Chris's funeral. Sending you love Barbara Celia Sullivan .
Added by Barbara A Vose - 17/06/2026
The tributes are eloquent and accurate. I could go on at length with stories numerous escapades, but suffice to say many of the best times I’ve ever enjoyed have been in the company of JV usually involving outdoor activity and beer. From Ireland ( cycling and Horcan’s/Melletts) to Cornwall ( body-boarding and The Old Success) to The Lakes ( mountain biking, walking and The Manor) to the high point of John o’ Groats to Landsend in 2015 ,we have had some marvellous times. He will be a massive miss.
Added by John Shaw - 17/06/2026
£55.00 + £13.75 GiftAid
Donated by John Shaw - 16/06/2026
£55.00 + £13.75 GiftAid
Uncle John: What a man, what a life, what an uncle. You had such an impact in my life. From being young I always loved visiting you and was in awe of all your adventures. From weekends away with Nana and grandad when the girls were young, to very special Christmas dinners, where your pork and apricot stuffing and Christmas Pud were a highlight! I always remember when you let me drive the green camper van down Dickinson Street when I hadn’t passed my test!!! And of course the numerous offy runs for southern comfort and Cointreau to keep the drinks flowing on my 18th x You influenced me so much with science, helping me get into uni and then becoming a teacher - although that didn’t last long 😂 The last few years and spending time in Spain and all the help and support with cycling and Team Felix has been very special and I won’t ever forget it x The boys always loved climbing with you and adventures in the van. 🧗 Of course comments from all my friends who met you “what a lovely man”!! They say grief is a true reflection of the love and we will miss you forever 🌟 Sending all our love always.to Aunty Barbara, Katy and Laurie Lisa and boys xxxx😘😘
Donated by Lisa Kuhwald - 16/06/2026
£25.00 + £6.25 GiftAid
Sending lots of love to all John's family and friends. Thank you for sharing all these tributes and memories. Ceri (next door neighbour) xxx
Donated by Ceri Alamsetti - 16/06/2026
£30.00 + £7.50 GiftAid
I first met John over 50 years ago when he came to visit Davina at our student accommodation in Durham. We were out, so he gained access (and probably a brew) by a feat of ingenuity and climbing. Over time, I have been fortunate to have met four generations of his family; most recently at his 70th birthday celebrations at Blencathra. I have fond memories of our times spent with John in the Lakes and Scotland on holidays; walking, cycling and eating together with family and friends, and John doing the Guardian crossword with my sister Sue. We shared an interest in good pubs (the beer – the craic) and food. If he liked what was on his plate, it would disappear in short shrift. He was a joy to cook for. It was a privilege for Ron and me to spend time with John and Barbara in Sheffield in November. They cooked us a lovely meal and we of course walked the dog and went to the pub. Another fond memory. A pal of action and anecdote who will be mightily missed. My condolences to all the family. Hil
Donated by Hilary Farthing - 16/06/2026
John Vose was a true gentleman ; we have wonderful memories of meeting you both at Siamsa and on the road. I met John & you while out walking one morning and you were on way to England but John said that ye forgot something at the cottage and ye were returning to retrieve it and bring with ye. That was to be the very last time I would ever speak to John. He was fascinated by my mother's maiden name( Grufferty). Sometimes also he would call me Anne Morley, ( my maiden name) and this other precious memory we have of your John is that he cooked a beautiful meal for us when we visited your home at Manchester. Your Mom was there that day too. He cooked carrots in some tinfoil with wine. That was September 2002. May they both rest in eternal peace. Just wanted to share those memories with you.. There is a saying that one never treasures a moment until it becomes a memory. Take good care , you are a very special family.xxx .
Added by Barbara A Vose - 16/06/2026
I can’t believe it has already been a month since you left us. It is still so hard to believe you died. Miss you Dad xxxx
Added by Laurie Vose - 15/06/2026
lots of happy memories of such a kind, clever man and adventurer x Rosie and Ellen
Donated by Rosie Jennings - 14/06/2026
John was a super level grounded salt of the earth family man. His sense of adventure taking his Clan to far places in their camper later helped inspire us to go in the same direction. Ever a kind and fun neighbor to have in Rochdale and a lovely guest to catch up with later on in France. Our thoughts are with Barbara and the girls at this sad time. He will will be missed by many good people. Lots of love Steve Lisa and family
Added by Steve Marsden - 14/06/2026
£25.00
John Vose I met John in the early 80’s, he was upside down in Davina’s Peugeot fixing something below the dashboard; he was chirpy and looked competent. At Dow Crag, we did Eliminate A with Katy, he was chirpy and competent. In The Duddon Valley he led The Breech E2 at Stonestar Crag and his competent chirpy instructions got me up it. At Chair Ladder, we couldn’t find the route, but he was still chirpy and we didn’t get wet. We found it later. Cycling from Bristol to Land’s End, the first day was 74 miles including about 6 miles on a towpath. In the evening he was still chirpy. On the Beinn Alligin horns we both had dodgy knees; slow but chirpy. In The Lakes Christmas Dinner kitchen, he was enthusiastic, competent and chirpy. It was a privilege to know him.
Donated by Ron Hollis - 13/06/2026
£25.00 + £6.25 GiftAid
Words cannot express how saddened we are by John's passing. He brought so much light, kindness, and warmth into the lives of those around him, and we feel truly blessed to have known him.We will always cherish the memories we shared with John, from spending time together at his home and ours to our trips to the Peak District. Those moments may have seemed simple at the time, but they are memories we will treasure forever and look back on with great affection. John was the kind of friend who was kind, caring, dependable, and full strength. Sending all our love, thoughts, and prayers to Barbara, Katy, Lauren and the entire family during this incredibly difficult time. Jarso and Abyot
Donated by Jarso Mekonnen - 13/06/2026
£30.00 + £7.50 GiftAid
Fond memories of numerous rugby matches attended with John, his dad and my dad. He was always happy and fun to be with.
Donated by Andrew Hirst - 13/06/2026
£25.00 + £6.25 GiftAid
Donated by Rosamund Ward - 12/06/2026
We were friends of Katy's from university and John always made an effort to speak to us when we saw him, it felt like his love for Katy extended into our whole uni group. We have many happy memories of times chatting to John over a cup of tea or glass of wine, at the crag or in the van. And also for his involvement and love for Isla, Finn and Esme. Much love to you all at this difficult time.
Added by Will and Amy Harris - 12/06/2026
When John the new science teacher walked into the staff room at OH wearing his 3 piece suit he was quite shy and softly spoken. Barbara was already on the staff and when they became a couple in Todmorden we were nearby. We have shared many times together, in Hebden and Rochdale and when we bought a house in France the Voses were early visitors. Later with Davina and her girls too. John and Katy cycled from the Corbiers once too for a quick visit and overnight stay. Lovely times. We spent a new year in Pontoon with Laurie, John and Barbara Jean-Pierre, Michele and Ann and children. A very damp experience. So many happy times. So many wonderful memories, John lives on in our memories, Joan FAIRLEY, Mark, Jonathan, Matthew and families
Added by Joan Fairley - 11/06/2026
I remember comparing notes with John when we attended the VSO debriefing. John spoke enthusiastically about expeditions with his colleagues climbing rocks and mountains, an exceptional landscape. I think seize the day was John’s mantra. Ros
Added by Ros Ward - 11/06/2026
£55.00 + £13.75 GiftAid
I first saw John and Barbara doing the Guardian crossword during breakfast at a B&B in Sheffield. It was Katy and Paul's graduation day. Little did we know how our lives would become intermingled. Most of my memories of John are based on the times spent with the grandchildren Isla, Finn and Esme. John was a proud and totally committed granddad who recognised the unique qualities of each child. They spent many hours with him in the Peak District and Ireland, walking, scrambling, and learning about the natural world. John's passion for the outdoors and for life long learning will be a lasting legacy for everyone who knew him.
Donated by Jane Tattersall - 11/06/2026
I’m so sad to hear of John’s death. Barbara, Laurie & Katie - I hope the memories of the times collected here, when he had good health & his crazy level of fitness, will soon dominate the memories of the difficult, later, times of his life. I met John in his Sheffield Uni days when I used to trek from Leeds on alternate weekends to see Phil (later my husband) and inevitably joined up with John, Davina, Gordon & Eric either in a bar or on a moor above Sheffield. I love nice voices and John’s was always one of my favourites; he was a great story-teller. Only his voice would have coaxed me up climbs on Stanage Edge that were way beyond my capabilities and well outside my comfort zone. His voice and his ability to explain (he must have been an inspirational teacher) & his expertise at leading or hauling me up got me up VS’s when I was much happier on FP’s (footpaths!). We lost face-to-face touch with John & Barbara when they left their lovely cottage in Todmorden but Barbara’s Christmas letters kept us abreast of the family news. I was touched when John rocked up to Phil’s funeral in 2011. My warmest wishes to those who are missing him now, you are richer for having had him your lives. Joan Scott
Added by Joan Scott - 11/06/2026
Much love, I think I’ve added a “thought”! Joan x
Donated by Joan Scott - 11/06/2026
I will always remember John as a kind, supportive and genuine man who was great to spend time with, whether it was sharing a drink or having a chat. Thank you for all your support during the 2013 Three Peaks Challenge when I was really struggling. I will never forget your understanding, patience and encouragement. I also have such wonderful family memories of your 70th birthday in the Lakes – what a brilliant weekend. You will be greatly missed. Big hugs to you all. Lots of love, Nat Vose xxx
Added by Natalie Vose - 10/06/2026
£25.00
John was larger than life and an amazing grandad to Isla, Finn and Esme. To Barbara, Katy and Laurie, you're all in our thoughts.
Donated by Jamie Tattersall - 10/06/2026
I met John on our first day at university - and we’ve been friends ever since. We probably didn’t make the most of our education, spending too much time in the union bar or playing darts in the Fox and Duck, but we managed to graduate, ( different days - a 22 was deemed acceptable!). Although never not in touch we didn’t see so much of each other as we both started teaching careers. However once with both had families that changed. Our daughters, devoid of cousins of their own adopted Katy and Laurie as ‘fake cousins’ , and we shared many wonderful holidays in the Lakes, Sennen, Ireland and one very hot one in Belgium. ( Why Belgium - near good climbing of course!). John and Barbara also joined our wider group of Lakes mates in weekends away. John took his role of ‘fake uncle’ seriously and has always been presence in our daughters lives as they grew up and as adults. We had a lot of fun in 2015 when the two Johns cycled John O’Groats to Lands End, with me providing support, ( brewing up in the van and buying cake several times a day). The diagnosis of John’s illness was a shock to everyone - including him. He endured the treatments offered to him stoically and with a large dose of black humour. I reminded him a few weeks ago of all that he had achieved since his diagnosis - including the impressive Duchenne Dash 2 years ago. John had so many different circles of friends but at heart, like his father before him, he was a huge family man, never happier than in the company of Barbara, the girls and his wonderful grandkids. So it is no surprise that it’s who he wanted around him in those last few weeks. Barbara, Katy and Laurie supported him brilliantly. Vosey - you are, and will continue to be a huge miss.
Added by Davina Jones - 10/06/2026
£25.00 + £6.25 GiftAid
Donated by Maggie Gowland - 10/06/2026
£55.00 + £13.75 GiftAid
Dear John, so many happy memories that will live on.
Donated by Margaret Whiteley - 10/06/2026
Well, what can I say! Uncle John, you were a true gentleman and a legend in every sense of the word. I have so many fond memories, from being a page boy at your wedding to Auntie Barbara, to the holidays in Ireland. (I'm sure the Irish authorities still think I'm in Ireland after you smuggled me back into the UK, so you didn't have to catch a later ferry 🤣) I especially cherish my childhood memories of the long school holidays spent at the cottage in Ireland. Even with no running water or proper bathroom facilities, they were great times—though I still don’t know to this day how emptying the chemical toilet became my job! 🤔🤔🤣 I do remember getting my own back on a slightly chilly day when we visited the beach. All I wanted to do was swim in the sea (The wild Atlantic Ocean), and after what I can only presume as being some serious pestering, you agreed to take me in! It was absolutely freezing, but as a child, I didn’t feel the cold at all. In I went, dragging you along with me. I don’t think you ever forgot or forgave me for how cold that water was, and you often reminded me of your sacrifice! 🤣 There are so many more memories from those times, like sitting in front of the open fire in the cottage, or going up to Julian’s to watch Irish folk bands. More recently, I loved when you came to visit me at work. You were always so keen to find out how things were going, offering invaluable advice and guidance when things weren’t always heading in the right direction. You have definitely left a hole in our lives, Uncle John, but you have also filled our lives with wisdom, adventure, and laughter. RIP Lots of love, Karl & Tierney.
Added by Karl Dutton - 10/06/2026
£25.00 + £6.25 GiftAid
Donated by Mary Lavin - 09/06/2026
John was an absolute gent!! One of the highlights of our summers in Cashle was John and the girls coming home with the camper van. John would always pop up the extendable roof on the camper, which we were just amazed by and have it set up for us where we we’d spend hours playing in it, even though it never left the driveway. 😂 He LOVED his bike, and had two older bikes that every summer were toured around the local area, which I'm pretty sure the girls then adopted. Last year, we had the absolute pleasure of having John and Barbara at our wedding. It was the first time I had seen him in years, and I have such fond memories of meeting him at the bar and side of the dance floor catching up on old times. Rest in peace John, sending love to Barbara, the girls and all the family x Mary (Lavin) and Mike Lewis x
Added by Mary Lavin - 09/06/2026
£25.00 + £6.25 GiftAid
R.I.P john he was lovely man and neighbour when was visting in ireland we would always remember him on his bike on his many cycles around mayo from martin and martina
Donated by Martin Lavin - 09/06/2026
A lovely man and colleague who will be sorely missed. Rest in peace Mr V, will always remember your mantra "Leave it with me" Collette Barrettxx.
Added by Collette Barrett - 09/06/2026
£50.00 + £12.50 GiftAid
In fond memory of a lovely Rochdale colleague and friend. With love and sympathy to all the family, Annie and Richard
Donated by Anne Aberdeen - 07/06/2026
£25.00 + £6.25 GiftAid
With sympathy to all the family from Lizzie and Rob x
Donated by Elizabeth Murphy - 07/06/2026
£25.00 + £6.25 GiftAid
With much sympathy and lots of love from Gill xxxxx
Donated by Gillian Sinnott - 07/06/2026
£25.00 + £6.25 GiftAid
Sending love to your family, and thinking of you xxx
Donated by Caer Smyth - 06/06/2026
£25.00 + £6.25 GiftAid
Sent in loving memory
Donated by Ann Simkins - 05/06/2026
£25.00 + £6.25 GiftAid
An wonderful, kind and generous man. A huge loss to all who knew him. X
Donated by Linda Pennington - 05/06/2026
Donated by Jenny Shaw - 05/06/2026
John has been a part of our family life for as long as I can remember. I have such great memories of holidays all together in Belgium, Cornwall, the Lakes and Ireland, and of sitting squashed in the back of the camper van with Van Morrison blaring on the tape player. His enthusiasm for the outdoors was contagious, and I can safely say I got the cycling and climbing bug in part from him, and am eternally impressed he got my Dad through JOGLE! He liked to pretend to be a grumpy old git, but he was really so generous and warm-hearted. He helped me set up my first ever email account back in the dark ages, gave me the best birthday gift I’ve ever received (the Only Connect quiz book!) and made a special visit to come and visit my son when he was born last year. I will dearly miss sharing my Guardian quiz score with him every week, as well as a pint in the Vic or the Manor. Jenny xxx
Added by Jenny Shaw - 05/06/2026
Uncle John was one of those rare people who made life brighter simply by being in it. Some of my favourite memories are our holidays in France, sitting together in the caravan, taking part in quizzes where somehow, he always knew every single answer. If anyone could have been my "phone a friend," it would have been Uncle John. He was the fun uncle everyone loved being around, but more than that, he was someone you could always trust. No matter what was going on, you knew you could talk to him about anything. He listened without judgement, offered wisdom when you needed it, and always made you feel understood. We shared a love of red wine, and every glass I raise will remind me of him. It feels especially meaningful that he shared his birthday with my daughter - a connection that will always keep a part of him close to our family. Uncle John leaves behind so many wonderful memories: laughter, holidays, conversations, and countless moments of kindness. I will always remember his warmth, his knowledge, his sense of humour, and the way he made people feel valued. Thank you, Uncle John, for being such a special godfather, uncle, and friend. We will miss you more than words can say, but we will carry your stories, your laughter, and your love with us always. Lots of love and hugs Annemarie & family
Added by Annemarie Mcmurray - 04/06/2026