Tributes flow for former Fonterra chair John Wilson

Tributes are flowing on social media for former Fonterra chairman John Wilson.

Wilson died yesterday morning after a hard-fought battle with illness, Fonterra announced. He stepped down from chairman in July of last year, retiring at the annual meeting in November.

Wilson worked for Fonterra for 17 years, joining the co-op’s board in 2003 as a farmer-elected director and becoming chairman in 2012

Following the news of his death, social media has been awash with sympathies for his passing.

New Zealand’s agricultural trade envoy Mike Petersen described Wilson as a “great guy” and a family man. 

Very saddened today with the passing of John Wilson. One of my old university mates and a passionate advocate for farmers, cooperatives, business, and trade. John had time for everyone. Most of all a great guy and family man who was so proud of Belinda and their girls. Huge loss.

— Mike Petersen (@tepunamike) January 28, 2019

Fonterra farmer and Federated Farmers dairy section vice chairman, Wayne Langford flew his Fonterra flag at half-mast in remembrance of Wilson. 

Half-Mast & a sunset for you John Wilson, #RIP a passionate leader of NZ & World Dairy!! Our thoughts and prayers @goaheadfarms are with your family❤?❤ @Fonterra pic.twitter.com/tPbiUIoi5j

— Wayne Langford (@goaheadfarms) January 28, 2019

Minister of Agriculture Damien O’Connor acknowledged Wilson’s dedication to dairy.

John Wilson was dedicated to the co-op and worked non-stop for our dairy farmers. We talked often over the years and I had great respect for John's farming knowledge and views. I'm sad to hear of his passing and my thoughts are with Belinda and Sophie, Victoria, Tessa and Libby.

— Damien O'Connor (@DamienOConnorMP) January 28, 2019