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.
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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.
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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
Credit: Keone-mae KI Gardiner
Chris Boyd with John Truman (source: Chris Boyd)
DOC ROSS PHOTOGRAPHIC ARCHIVE
