John Mottram 1939 - 2024

It is with heavy hearts we have to tell you that John died in North Shore Hospital last night, just a few hours shy of his 85th birthday. No-one could have been more passionate about bridge than John. His valued involvement both as a very patient partner and formidable opponent, coupled with his terms as President of Lindfield and North Shore Bridge Clubs, will remain his legacy.

We shared many trips away to various congresses held around Australia. John loved a good chat, and always had a story or two to tell. Of course, a bottle or two of red was an integral part of post-bridge game analyses which we all enjoyed so much.

John was a kind, thoughtful and very generous friend to so many. 

Vale John, we will all miss you. 

Lorraine Schaap & Helen Christie

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John was one of the great stalwarts at North Shore Bridge Club. He was President several times at the original Lindfield Bridge Club including in 2007 when the club transitioned to NSBC in Willoughby. He also took on the presidency in 2019 as an interim appointment while the club was trying to fill the void left by John Brownie's retirement.

John was successful in winning numerous Club Championships including the Mens Pairs in 1983, Men's Teams in 2002 and 2009,  Club Teams in 2000, Mixed Teams in 2002 and 2009, Matchpoint pairs in 2005 and 2007. 

Recently, John accepted the honour of having his name associated with the Club Championship for RESTRICTED Players - the award of a trophy now known as the John Mottram Club Restricted Championship Cup.

Since the advent of Online Bridge, John could be found nearly every day playing in some session or other. He particularly enjoyed partnering one or other of his "harem" - Lorraine, Helen, Jenny, De, Anne  ..  and others. He also greatly enjoyed his game with Neil - which was invariably followed by a few hours of discussion and sharing several glasses of his favourite Red at a suitable nearby watering hole. Hardly a month went by when John wouldn't be listed as a winner in our Monthly Winners competition - and indeed was still playing in a session just two weeks ago when he was suddenly taken ill.

The photo below was taken at his 80th Birthday celebration. Many of us were looking forward to celebrating his 85th this Friday - but sadly this was not to be.

We will all have special and fond memories of John. He was one-of-a-kind. Rest in Peace, John.

A funeral service to honour and celebrate John's life will be held on Friday 12th at Macquarie Park Crematorium, Palm Chapel at 12.15pm. This will be followed by light refreshments. Members who wish to attend are very welcome.

LG