John Devenport talks about his first love - motor racing. Video courtesy of John Butler
The 70-year-old was born and went to school in Connah’s Quay in North Wales, and then went on to what he described as “the University of Life, Brooklyn USA”.
A self-employed, self-made man, John was keen on motorsport in his spare time, taking part in many car rallies in Wales as a co-driver/navigator, experience that came in useful when he played a crucial role in planning and organising the GOMS’ annual charity rally in Phuket. He was also a devoted Manchester United fan.
After his retirement he spent part of the year in Phuket and part in his homeland, where he had a home in the North Wales resort town of Prestatyn.
On his Facebook page, he remarked, “I am me. You get what you see.” What people saw was an unshakeable optimism and the ability to make friends with anyone.
Jum Ali Khan, a co-organiser and car lover, remarked today, “His cheerful demeanour and willingness to say it like it really is will be sadly missed by his friends and colleagues.”
Funeral arrangements in the UK and celebrations of his life in Phuket have yet to be arranged.