Tragic John was a ‘true giant’, says Sturgeon
The First Minister has led fresh tributes to a stalwart SNP activist who tragically died during a holiday in America.
Nicola Sturgeon is among many politicians who have honoured the memory of 34-year-old John Clark.
John, who grew up in Kirklandneuk in Renfrew and lived in Paisley, was well known through his role as office manager for Renfrewshire North and West MSP Derek Mackay.
He has been described by the SNP leader as a “true giant of a man” in an emotional post on social media.
The First Minister’s post reads: “Devastated by this news. John was a stalwart of the SNP.
“As well as being Derek’s office manager, John was a committed activist and valued member of our National Executive Committee.
“A true giant of a man, in every sense.
“My love and thoughts are with his family, friends and colleagues.”
John was tipped to have a very bright future in Scottish politics.
He previously ran as an SNP candidate in the Paisley Northeast and Ralston ward in 2017 and was also the official SNP member support convener.
Paisley and Renfrewshire South MSP Mhairi Black said: “Such tragic news.
“The loss to Renfrewshire, the SNP and the lives of so many people is impossible to measure. We will all miss you, John.”
Provost Lorraine Cameron said: “Adios John... You were the kindest friend and have left a lot of broken hearts.
“You will be missed very much my big pal.”
Paisley and Renfrewshire North MP Gavin Newlands described John as a “loyal friend”.
He posted: “I was deeply shocked and saddened by the awful news of
John’s passing.
“He was a great son, grandson and brother to his family and a loyal friend to a great many - a fact that is testament to the impact he made in so many peoples’ lives.
“He will be missed by all in Renfrewshire.”
We reported yesterday’s that John had sadly passed away and Mr Mackay described his friend and colleague as a “gentle giant”, prompting condolences from across the entirety of Scottish politics, including Conservative leader Ruth Davidson MSP.
John’s death sent shockwaves throughout the Renfrewshire community after his sister Michelle Clark broke the news.
He had just started a two-week holiday in the US and Mexico when he passed away on Sunday.
He had posted on social media just days before heading to the United States on the dream trip.
A post on Twitter read: “Two weeks off work! Next stop Denver, followed by Albuquerque, LA and then Ensenada.
“Not much happening just now, so seems perfect time to get away.”
John’s heartbroken sister Michelle said their family have been left “numb” by the news.
Arrangements for John’s funeral service will be announced in due course.