A beacon of positivity, radiating an infectious energy. A living legend.

These are just a handful of terms used to describe Tauranga man John Barton.

John, or JB as he was known to many people, the brains and effort behind Tauranga Youth Search and Rescue, passed away on Wednesday morning.

He had numerous coronaries since 2013 and open heart surgery in 2016.

“After a major heart attack during an angiogram a few months ago, they sent me home from Waikato Hospital because they can't do anything for me,” John told SunLive reporter Hunter Wells back in 2022. Read more here.

Fast-forward to this week, and many people are sharing their memories of JB.

YSAR Trust CEO Steve Campbell says JB is a “legend in every sense of the word”.

“My journey alongside JB began during my time at the NZ Police in Tauranga, where we united our efforts in the realm of Search and Rescue.

“Together, we embarked on countless searches and training missions, forming a bond forged in the crucible of shared experiences.”

Steve says JB was a beacon of positivity, “radiating an infectious energy that ignited our spirits and motivated us to always strive for improvement”.

“I remember vividly the moment that ignited JB's passion for Youth Search and Rescue.

“It was during a regional Land Search and Rescue meeting in Rotorua back in 2004. A member from Hamilton Land Search and Rescue returned from the USA, and fired up about a youth development program in SAR. JB was captivated by the idea declaring, I remember, ‘We should do that in Tauranga’.”

John leading a YSAR exercise.

And so began the journey of YSAR, and JB’s determination never wavered.

With each encounter, Steve says he nudge him with his persistent enthusiasm, asking, "Are you ready to set up YSAR here yet?"

“I can still recall the words that empowered him further, spoken by Ross Gordon at a SAR conference: "Look across the room, we need to invest in the next generation".

Steve says JB's resolve deepened, and his pestering became a testament to his unyielding commitment.

“In 2007, I finally agreed: ‘When you find a team and we gain Tauranga Search and Rescue's endorsement, we'll start YSAR’.

“By October 2008, JB had rallied the support needed, and Tauranga Land Search and Rescue gave YSAR its blessing.

“We formed a working group and set the wheels in motion. The legacy that followed is etched in history, a testament to JB's unwavering dedication.

“JB's passion was palpable when he interacted with students, sharing his SAR experiences and wisdom.

“With every story, he captivated their hearts, and they absorbed his teachings like sponges. Standing tall in stature, he carried himself with pride, waving the YSAR flag at every opportunity.”

John Barton was loved by all who knew him.

Yet, beyond his SAR endeavours, JB was a dear friend who stood by Steve during one of life's darkest chapters.

“A devoted husband to Judi, he often marvelled at her goodness and his luck in having her,” says Steve.

“A loving father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, he overflowed with pride for his family.

“Two weeks before he departed, I spent a few precious hours with JB, taking him to a YSAR exercise. Little did I know it would be our final encounter.”

Following that trip in August 5, John sent the below messaged to Steve.

A note from John Barton:

“The phone rings and its Steve Campbell asking if I want to come up to the scout hut. “Yes” says me and Steve confirms he will pick me up shortly.

“I rushed around and found my midday meds, phone and a bottle of water, then offered some reassuring words to Lady Judi.  Then its shoes and hat on and I'm ready to go.

“It was never ending chat on the ride up to the top of Kaimais with a lot of memories discussed. We went up the farm race and met the farmer at the gate by the pines. 

“The next thing we came across was an old friend Jane walking the track. We went down the hill and over the bridge. I remember when there was no bridge just a Ford.

“We have arrived at hut, put the jug on and managed our toiletries then took a trip over heaps of memories. As we entered the hall, the first person I met was Tom Bennett. an old student of mine. Steve took the opportunity to introduce me to the students and land search and rescue instructors. We had coffee and lunch while reminiscing about a lot of old good times.

“Too quickly time was up and we were heading home.

“Thanks Steve! The opportunity to get out to the scout hut and reminisce was priceless, I was last there in 2016.

“THANKS MATE FROM JB+JUDI.”

John showing what to do and what not to do around a fire.

Legacy

JB leaves behind a legacy etched in the hearts of his family, the YSAR community, and all whose lives he touched, says Steve.

“His influence on the youth and his dedication to volunteering will shape the future.

“Judi, today our hearts embrace you and your family. Know that the YSAR family stands with you in this time of sorrow and healing. We speak with one voice when we say, JB, you are a legend—a friend whose memory will forever inspire us.”