Tributes to teacher who was loved by his pupils
She said: “He was my year leader and PE teacher. He was a brilliant PE teacher. All the pupils from around our time in school remember him for the games of dodgeball. They were terrifying as he was so good at it!
“He was an amazing teacher who so many pupils looked up to and respected. We want to help out as much as possible.
“There will be a bike ride from Leeds to Liverpool to raise funds too in November, and people from our year group will be doing it.”
Mr Cattell’s wife Jenny posted on the gofundmepage: “Myself, Robyn and Gabe (their children) are so overwhelmed at how you are showing us how much he meant to all of you.
“It’s amazing how much love you all have for him and it means the world to us. THANK YOU. We will continue to read all the new comments and recognise your names as often as we can. X”
She also posted a note to the site inviting people to raise a glass to John’s memory and spend a few moments of quiet reflection listening to Freebird by Lynyrd Skynyrd.
She added: “The lyrics are the message in what is John’s favourite song.”
Meanwhile, Mr Cattell’s former pupils have been sharing memories as well as donating in his memory.
Dan Todd said: “RIP. Best teacher. Very sad news.”
Jessica Sykes said: “RIP Mr Cattell. A truly great teacher who will be sadly missed.”
Jack Bairstow said: “The man will be missed by many an absolute amazing man gone too soon”
Sam Thorpe said: “Top Teacher Top Man be missed by many.”
Levii Stott said: “Can not believe it sir. You will be missed by many. Rest in peace lovely x”
Thomas Woolley said: “Best teacher I ever had.”
Natasha Connolly said: “RIP Sir! You gave us such harsh words but it only worked in our favour! Gone but never forgotten one of the witches!”
Anthony Hinchliffe said: “Rest in peace Sir, thanks for everything you’ll always be remembered.”
Gina Louise said: “R.i.p Mr Cattell you gave me some telling offs but was all in my best interest, you’ll never be forgotten.x”
Visit https://www.gofundme.com/cattellfamily to donate.