John Malcolm Swales

John was very supportive and encouraging when we founded the programme in English for Academic Purposes for staff and researchers in Oslo, Norway, 2005. The project developed and thrived, and is now firmly established at Oslo Metropolitan University. John came to our international conference as plenary speaker in 2018, to our great joy and gratitude. Of course, he was the life and soul of the conference. We will miss his kindness, humour and academically inspiring presence.

I am so sorry to hear about your departure John but I am glad that you passed away at home. You fought so hard over the past years and I know that this gave you quality time with Claire and family. I have spent time reflecting on the fun moments that we had when I was young and we all came to visit you in Edgebaston. The five of us had great fun together whilst you, Val, Dad & Mum enjoyed deep discussions... I always remember you proudly showing us your stamp collection and the history behind...

I was one of the lucky recipients of John's knowledge of butterflies. I emailed him a butterfly question once, and was bowled over by all he knew. This led to several walks together at Greenview Park, where I learned so much from him. The book he recommended is still my favorite butterfly ID book. So grateful to him. May he rest in peace, and may his loved ones find comfort

I got to visit with him on that porch, usually after a good bike ride around town. Very pleasant. Cambridge classmates he knew, Derek Jacoby, Ian McKellen.