It's with deep regret that I must inform you of the untimely passing of John Stallard. John played for the club from 1981 until 1991. A Bristolian through and through, he worked for a company called MPSI based out of the Castlemead offices in central Bristol. He was seconded on several occasions to work in America before finally moving permanently to the company’s HQ in Tulsa, Oklahoma, before finally settling in Texas.
John played 298 games in his 10-year period, playing for all Dings' teams. From 1987 to 1991 he played 139 games, hardly missing a game, something players today would not deem possible. John played second row at a time when the Dings were a renowned club to play against. Most would describe him as an old fashioned second row but he had better hands than most gave him credit for. He also played 7s (tight head) for the company side, with his claim to fame being losing to a Bath select 7 in the semi-final of a local tournament.
John loved the Dings and despite numerous attempts by work colleagues to defect and join Old E’s, he was never remotely interested. Three months ago, John was healthy and very active still cycling 30-plus miles on a weekend ride. He started to feel unwell and after initial checks was diagnosed with a particularly aggressive form of cancer, which spread rapidly. He declined chemotherapy and died at home surrounded by those he loved.
Those who had the pleasure to meet and play rugby with John, have fond memories of him.
Steve Lloyd