Beaudesert philanthropist John Mann is being remembered as a colourful and larger than life character with a heart to match.
Mr Mann passed away 16 October 2022 age 76 after a long illness.
The former Beaudesert Shire Councillor and much-loved Beaudesert Rotarian was well known for his role in establishing the Educating Cambodia charity.
Through that charity, Beaudesert Rotary was able to help fund the creation and ongoing costs of what eventually became two school campuses, serving several local villages in Prey Veng Province.
Mr Mann served as a councillor from 1997 to 2004, representing Division 3 which at that time extended from Rathdowney in the south to Kooralbyn and Cedar Vale in the north, and campaigned for but did not secure the mayoralty in 2004.
Tributes for Mr Mann flowed on Facebook after his daughter, Dr Nell Mann, posted a tribute to his page.
“Dad had many lovely children – Sam, Nell, Toby, Sarah, Hayley, Eddie, Tom and Jenny – and in turn many beautiful grandchildren,” she wrote.
“His memory, his curiosity, his zest for life, and his love will live on in all of us. Actor, teacher, politician, nurse, philanthropist, Dad lived a wonderfully colourful and interesting life, and he made an impact on many people especially in England, New Zealand, Australia and Cambodia.”
Current Beaudesert Rotary President Mark McCabe said Mr Mann was a valued member.
“When he was well, John always helped with the Beaudesert Rotary catering events – he was an important member of our group,” he said.
“He lived a fair bit of his life in Cambodia and organised trips for our Rotary club to go to Cambodia and visit our Beaudesert Rotary School over there.
“We still support Educating Cambodia, which was John’s vision – that’s part of our international service.”
Mr Mann was to be privately cremated and, in accordance with his wishes, his ashes were to be scattered in Prey Veng Province in Cambodia. In lieu of flowers, the family asked mourners to please consider donating to www.educatingcambodia.com/donate to support the continued payment of teachers and resourcing in the schools he cared for so much.
