Tributes flow for Christchurch identity affectionally known as 'Radio Ron'

Christchurch has lost a beloved local figure, affectionately known as ‘Radio Ron.’

John Raymond Truman became a familiar sight walking across the city with his trusty transistor radio.

PHOTO: MAUREEN RIESTERER

John’s former carer confirmed to Chris Lynch Media that John had died this week expressing, “the news is very sad, but he lived a full life, for sure.”

“John never wanted to miss out on anything Christchurch had to offer. He attended every A&P show in November, was originally a regular at Cashel Mall, and frequented Westfield Mall on weekends. John loved Christchurch and all the people in it.”

John was a regular at Christchurch’s Classical Sparks, at North Hagley Park, always carrying a portable radio, which he updated over the years.

To newcomers, he was surprising, but they soon realised he loved being in the spotlight with his infectious cheeky smile.

His fame went nationwide when he was featured in a story about his life on New Zealand network prime time television in 2013.

Doc Ross photographic archive

In his later years, he mellowed, and his appearances throughout Christchurch city became increasingly rare.

However, public interest in John persisted, leading residents to create a Facebook fan page that attracted over 8,500 followers.

John faced numerous challenges as a child, including a bout with polio, but that didn’t stop him from living a full life.

Doc Ross photographic archive

Waimakariri District Mayor Dan Gordon said John was “a lovely man and a local icon. Will miss seeing him around. RIP “Radio Ron.”

Christchurch East MP Reuben Davidson said John was “a familiar site round Christchurch since I was a kid, always with his portable radio and often enjoying community events around our city. A local legend lost.”

Former Christchurch City Councillor for the Central Ward Deon Swiggs paid tribute saying Truman was “a cherished Christchurch community icon. John was truly unique, and his presence will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Radio Ron with Chris Lynch

“John had a passion for radios, batteries, and coffee. He was a familiar face in the city centre and Riccarton Mall, often visiting independently by bus to see his many friends. His enthusiasm for these simple pleasures reflected his vibrant spirit.”

Credit: Keone-mae KI Gardiner

Swiggs said he was “more than a familiar face. John was a friend to many and a vital part of our community. He was well-known and loved, even having his own dedicated Facebook page, which he cherished. He took great joy in sharing it with the staff and friends who read it to him.

Chris Boyd with John Truman (source: Chris Boyd)

My condolences go out to John’s family and friends. Let’s remember him for the joy and connection he brought into our lives. His memory will live on in our hearts and in the many stories we share about his remarkable life” Swiggs said.

More FM host Lana Searle wrote on Facebook “if you’re from Christchurch you probably don’t need it explained, Ron was an institution on the streets and malls of Christchurch and has been for decades.

DOC ROSS PHOTOGRAPHIC ARCHIVE

“When I first moved to Christchurch many years ago Ron made his way to our studios on Victoria street and introduced himself to me. It’s been a pleasure having you on the other end of the radio Ron, May you rest easy in a land with plenty of batteries and your favorite requests.”

John was 75.