Page 9 - Southwell School_The Chronicle July 2021

During John’s four years as a Southwell boarder he excelled as a sportsman showing particular strength on the cricket pitch and rugby field, serving as captain of the first fifteen
- “A wing who has plenty of dash”. John’s leadership skills were also recognised when he was made a prefect in his final year. For the current students to hear all the things John has achieved was truly inspiring and motivating, John entertained them, at the service, with stories of brickmak- ing, bell ringing and being assigned the job of ‘pumper of the chapel organ’ as there was no power in the chapel in the 1940’s!
It was both special and fitting that John was able to share his special day with his son Duncan and grandchildren Zach, Renee, Steffi, Jack, Alex and Grace, all old boys and girls of Southwell. Unfortunately his wife Sarah was unable to be there but we have been fortunate to have had the pleasure of her visits to Southwell in recent times.
On leaving Southwell John attended Wanganui Collegiate then returned to the family farm in Hinuera before settling in the King Country where he farmed sheep and beef and became a leader in this industry. Today John and Sarah are enjoying life on the outskirts of Otorohanga where they enjoy a magnificent view of their family farm and district. John is a humble, inspirational family man, philanthropist, farmer and businessman who, along with his wife Sarah share the belief of ‘Give with a Living Hand’. This motto
has enabled them to see the benefit and happiness of their support and generosity to others. Southwell looks forward to the next 100 years of association with the Oliver family.
Per aspera ad Astrum.