In memory of John Hone

My condolences to John’s family. An encounter with the Dragon is a huge inspiration for me.

Sorry "Encounters with the Dragon"

Sorry to hear, he definitely inspired many a hiker with his book and exceptional photos he took of the berg, i hope his ashes will be laid to rest somewhere in the mountains.

I can feel the tears in my eyes as I write this. John and I had an interesting relationship. He always inspired me to try harder in my photography, both of us knowing that he would only choose the best images for his publications, and the best of the best for anything Drakensberg. John we will miss you, however I firmly believe that there is a hope for the future and you will walk your beloved Drakenserg again.

Comfort to his dear wife and family at this difficult time. He was and will continue to be an inspiration to me.

He had a good life and was an inspiration to many, TonyMarshall and I where talking about him 2 days ago as we looked at the Icidi Pencil. He will be missed.

We will miss you John. What an inspiration you were to Chris. We will always be thankful for your warmth and friendship, and for the hospitality that you and Barbara showed us in your home.

Wow this is sad.

My wife and I met him some time ago on the Rainbow Gorge route, taking photos of the forest waterfalls on the section before you enter the riverbed. An unbelievable down to earth guy who cared for nature very very deeply.

Some members seem to know him personally, I'm sure this is a great loss to you. The rest of us also feels like we knew him to some extent through his lens and fantastic writing. 'Encounters' is, together with Barrier of Spears the two great books of the Berg and treasures in my home.

Oom John, may your soul fly with the Lammergeiers and Black Eagles over the cliffs and peaks that inspired you so greatly.

Such terribly sad news.
I got to know of John and his book, because I use the same guest house that his family did while he received his first bone marrow transplant in Cape Town a few years back. I foolishly did not purchase the signed copy on offer, but became so engrossed in the stories that I was late for more than one appointment.
What John has left me with, is that it’s OK to lug costly heavy camera equipment up the mountain. He did, and we are all the richer for it.
Your pack is a lot lighter now John , wander the hills and ridges and put in a good word to the mountain gods when you see us trying to walk in your footsteps.