| Shropshire chess is mourning the passing of veteran John Tunks, a tough competitor on the playing scene for many years. - Shropshire Star 27/05/2014
Paying tribute, club colleague Eugene Raby said: "I have the sad job of informing Shropshire chess that John Tunks passed away last Tuesday night at the Shrewsbury hospital.
"John Tunks would himself like to be remembered for his encouragement and support to young players throughout his chess-playing years. John first started playing chess seriously in the early 1960s but was given his first showing with Shropshire when he moved into the area in the early 1970s when he helped form the Sutton Hill chess club. This club quickly grew and won the league at their first attempt.
"John then joined GKN Sankey's which within two seasons became very successful, producing many strong youngsters. John contributed greatly. Then in the early 1980s Sankey's needed a new venue and moved to the famous Coddon club which went on to become one of Shropshire's most successful until the club's closure in 2011 when they relocated to the Lion at Priorslee.
"John continued to enjoy success even at his later years, but had to endure a bypass operation in his mid-sixties and through grit and determination recovered well to play some of his best chess.
"One thing anyone knew when they sat down to play John Tunks is they were in for a tough game. Sadly for John during his last few weeks his health suffered and he passed away quietly at hospital.
"I am sure everyone who knew John will offer his family their deepest thoughts and respect."
Eugene Raby 21/05/2014
Joyce, John's wife, would welcome anyone who knew John who would wish to attend his funeral. It is to be held at the Telford Crematorium (Woodhouse Lane, Redhill,Telford. TF2 9NJ) at 11am Friday 6th June 2014.
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