Sunday, February 23, 2014
I met John at St Johns in August. He immediately learned my name and stopped me each night at gate 6 to say hi and talk. He always talked to me whenever he saw me. He had jokes to make, stories to tell, and time to listen. He spoke highly of his children and family who he adored. He worked long nights, and somehow always had a huge smile on his face. He was a pleasant person to be greeted by each night. John listened to me, understood me and encouraged me to make the most out of a less ideal situation. I hadn't seen my buddy at gate 6 for a few weeks, and just learned of his passing tonight. I am truly saddened by this news and pray for John's wife, children, family and friends to gain the strength to get through this time and remember how much he loved them. I know I was one of John's favorite students, but he made everyone feel like family. He is by far the kindest, happiest and most genuine person I've met during my short time at St Johns and I am sad he is no longer here to greet me. The love he has for his family shows in the person he was. St Johns is not going to be the same and I will miss hearing John yell my name each night. I will miss the pleasant greeting John always had every night no matter what time it was. RIP John and god bless the Ballantyne family always.
