Mr Massard always had time to have a chat with me at the car park when I dropped off my Sons in the morning. We loved talking about how our Football Club (Liverpool FC) performed over the weekend. We got to see finally Winning the EPL! My Sons and I miss him very much.
I was just mentioning Mr Massard to my husband whilst talking about good teachers. I said he was the only Primary School (1980's) teacher I remembered because he was a wonderful and kind man. I was just searching him up to reach out and say "Hi". I am so sad to hear about the loss. Mr Massard was a positive influence that I will never forget. Prayers are with the family.
When I was the principal of Regents Park, John was a huge support to me. He was one of the most decent men I ever met and worked with in public education. His death is a huge loss and my thoughts go out to his family, friends and colleagues.
I had the privilege of working at HSPS and learning from John the many skills to be an effective leader. I valued his wisdom and his dad jokes which were always said at a time that I needed a laugh. I treasured our conversations both personally and professionally. He was so proud of his family and his school and genuinely cared for everyone equally. His ongoing belief in me and constant words of encouragement in times of doubt will be missed greatly. John was such an amazing man and I thank him for making me a better me! Rest in peace Bossman! xxx
I value having the opportunity to work with John as his Deputy, and then a principal peer. While there were many opportunities to observe quality leadership, the most impact John had on me was to find balance at times when I would feel overwhelmed, and he modelled strategies that included humour and making time for family. I will miss my ‘Phone a Friend’ option.
So my little brother just walked in and told me that his old principal has passed. Our memories of Mr Massard are always smiling, encouraging, supportive, funny, concerned about his students including their families. My father would often have chats with John and the encouragemt shown to my little brother Tonys education was appreciated. Our condolences go to Mr Massard's family and loved ones.
What a lovely idea. What did I learn from John? I think lots of people were impacted by John’s life, and took with them many lessons. He showed me how important it is to collect the facts and be well researched. The wisdom John had was not without careful consideration of all avenues and options. Thank you.
I was so sorry to hear of John’s passing. I will always remember him as a wonderful boss with a good sense of humour! He showed great kindness to me which I appreciated. Sending love to his family.
My deepest condolences to Karen and family, friends and colleagues. John was a terrific person, completely genuine, always positive and encouraging and passionate about helping others. I am forever grateful to have worked along side John early in my teaching career really enjoying his insights about teaching and life and sharing many laughs together. John has left an indelible legacy as person, role model, leader and friend to many and will be sorely missed RIP
We remember John for his strong, professional contribution to supporting and mentoring many individual principal colleagues, and for the impact his leadership has had on teachers and students. He was a much respected colleague, a kind good friend in education. He will be deeply missed, particularly by those who associated closely with him through the Granville Primary Principal’s Council, NSWPPA. Estelle Southall, President on behalf of Granville colleagues
How sad that John passed away at such a young age. He was a committed educator, much loved by his students, staff, parents and colleagues. His memory will live on in the positive difference he made to their lives.
Dear Karen, Sarah, Tracey, Tim and family, we are so sorry that we are unable to be with you all on Thursday. John was so proud of you all and he was an amazing principal and friend. He was always encouraging, highly ethical, thoughtful, inclusive and always ready to assist and support others. He gave his teachers the confidence to lead, explore passions, trial new strategies, innovate and work with others. With John , we had the reassurance that we could openly admit to mistakes and fix them without ridicule. He saw the talents and strengths in others that they didn’t see in themselves. He had a kind and clever sense of humour and he was the definition of emotional intelligence (long before it ever became a buzz word/phrase). I often try to think about how he would handle a situation before I try to resolve it. His legacy will live on in so many students, teachers and friends and I will miss him enormously. Michael (and Kylie) Duffy and family.
Many years ago I had the pleasure of working with John. He was a man of integrity and great substance who modelled the attributes of living with purpose and authenticity. I will always remember his kindness and his willingness to make a positive difference to others. His contribution has been enormous and I am so blessed to have known his compassion. My sincerest condolences to his family who were a source of great pride for John.
Words seem inadequate to express the sadness that I feel at the tragic loss of John. He has gently guided us at Harrington Street and shared many jokes. John will be hugely missed.
So sorry to hear of John’s passing . May the love you all share as a family give you the strength to get you through this difficult time. May he Rest In Peace. Love your friend Daniela
I am truly sorry to hear about the loss of your husband. I can only imagine the grief you are going through now you and your family. My prayers are with you during this difficult time. May he rest in peace your friend Nawal .
John will always be remembered by me as being a great "can do" person. He was always ready to help out in practical ways for a good cause. (Such as fund-raising bike rides) His legacy will live on in the many lives he touched through his church involvement and in teaching of course. He and Karen's children are a fine testimony to his life and work. I was proud to be part of the family. (I married Karen's sister Wendy)