The following was read out at the Kirk Session on Monday 3rd September 2007

Tribute to the late John Ferguson

John was born in Colmonnel in Ayrshre in 1920 and was one of 5 children, with brother Charlie and sisters Bess, Mary and Grace. As a family they moved to Coatbridge in 1923 He attended Gartsherrie Academy and Kildonan High School. He served his apprenticeship as a bricklayer with Loudon and Inglis.

He attended this Church and went through Sunday School and Bible Class. It was here that he met Jenny. Their friendship was interrupted when John went to serve in the Cameronians. He rose in rank to Acting Sgt Major. He saw action in Europe where he was wounded in the knee which put paid to his sporting life. He had been a member of the Monkland Harriers and during his army service was battalion Athletic Champion.

John married Jenny in 1948 and they had 59 happy years together They had 2 children Charles and Ann and grandchildren Rachel, Robin, Scott and Andrew, Very much a family oriented man John was proud of and loved them all.

After his family John’s other love was sport – a keen badminton player. John also loved his bowling both indoor and outdoor. A founder member at Coatbridge Indoor Bowling Club he was on the first committee in 1971. A member too at the Barrowfiield Club and the Gartsherrie Bowling Club. John was a keen player but was also always willing to help new players

After retiring John really took to gardening and produced huge sunflowers and yellow tomatoes which I’m told were very much appreciated by friends and family alike.

John though also loved his Church. A faithful member John was ordained to the eldership in 1957 and was very conscientious in his duties. Also at one time Property Convener John worked tirelessly for the Church that he so loved.

It was only in latter days that John’s health prevented him from keeping up his Church work He remained though faithful to his Lord and his Church throughout.

John was someone who was kind caring and helpful, who could also be quite strong willed and yet who also had a good sense of humour a ready smile, and a word of encouragement.

He is remembered as a good husband, father and grandfather, As a loyal and hard working Church member and Elder. As a good friend. A good man, John will be greatly missed by those who knew and loved him

Our thoughts and prayers are extended to Jenny and the family