John Wilmott, founding member of Uringa and father of one of the most famous orienteering families in Australia, has passed away aged 89.
John was also an original FOTH (Friend of the Hut, at Belanglo State Forest). The third of ten children, he died peacefully at home on Sunday morning.
"He was M50 Australian champion the same year that mum was W50 champ (1978)," said Luke, one of five sons.
"They would have been in M/W90 this year. He wouldn't mind us naming the dunny after him... The John 😊."
Son Mark added: "Looking through old photos, it struck us all how much the ‘orienteering family’ has been a great part of all our lives. Very early on, Dave Lotty contacted Dad - knowing if John joined up he would bring the kids and he would have an instant club.
Being afforded life membership of Uringa was something he treasured.
From this time until now there are so many friends from all over the world who are special to Dad and Mum.
Dad loved his orienteering, but what he loved most were the people he met. He would talk constantly about the characters, laughing out loud, but most of all he loved and was enormously proud of his family.
Orienteering gave us all so many great times and on behalf of Dad and our family we thank you for your kind thoughts and wishes."
Dave Lotty recalls: “It was 1961 or ’62, I was 18 and part of the first social running club in Australia; we used to run at Canterbury Racecourse. John brought the boys along and that’s how we met.
“When orienteering started around 1971 or 1972, I mentioned it to the boys and they said: ‘That’s for me!’. Within three months the whole family was doing it.
“We all joined Kareelah and in 1975 broke away to form Uringa.”
John's funeral is on Friday at 11am at St May Mackillop Catholic Church at 13 Parker St, Rockdale.
SMH link to leave messages - http://tributes.smh.com.au/obituaries/smh-au/obituary.aspx?n=john-wilmott&pid=188891511
