1 Maris tribute+pic*

Simon Ward

11 May 2010

THE family of 70-year-old biker John Maris have described him as a true gentleman who loved life and had a passion for motorbikes.
The university lecturer who lived on Leicester Road in Shilton died as a result of multiple injuries when his red Moto Guzzi Breva collided with another motorbike on the B4029 between his village and Brinklow last Saturday afternoon (October 11).
Mr Maris' family said in spite of his age the grandfather had been in the prime of his life.
"John was a husband, father, grandfather, brother, cousin, friend and colleague," they said in a joint statement.
"John's age was not important, as he was perhaps younger within himself at the time he was taken from us than he had ever been.
"His life was full of things that stimulated him, that challenged him and that he found immense satisfaction from being involved in.
"He lived in the 'now' with total commitment, passion and pride in what ever he did."
Mr Maris was passionate about motorbikes, particularly those made by the Italian firm Moto Guzzi - Europe's longest established motorbike manufacturer.
And in an active retirement he had become a part-time university lecturer and joined the Freemasons' Mike Hailwood Lodge.
Before retiring Mr Maris worked for the NHS for many years, during which time he obtained a degree. Prior to that he has served in the army in the latter days of national service.
Among those who knew him he was renowned for his straight-talking honesty and mischievous sense of humour and he was a man who could not easily be ignored or forgotten, his family said.
"John was one of life's characters, he was a true gentleman in the old sense of the word but adapted this persona with a razor sharp wit and genuine enthusiasm for life.
"All knew him as a man with immense enthusiasm, tireless dedication, a quick wit and cheeky humour, a practical and pragmatic approach to problems and above all a man with energy, excitement, zeal and pleasure in his life and the people he met and held dear.
"John's life had been rich with experiences, both good and bad, but he had not turned bitter or grown old inside. John loved life, you couldn't help but sense that when you spoke to him.
"It feels so wrong that he has now gone, but he will not be forgotten."
Mr Maris' funeral takes place at Shilton Parish Church on Tuesday at 1.30pm.

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