John Wignall was born in England in 1932 and graduated from Manchester University before moving to New Zealand.
A stockbroker, he married Adele who bore him three children: Trevor, Anne and Keith.
When he, fresh out of college, arrived in Christchurch in 1953, he was seized by a passion for bridge that never left him, so much so that when he disappeared he had been a member of the local club for over 70 years.
For decades he has been a key figure in both the New Zealand Federation and the WBF, organizations for which he has received the highest certificates of merit and held various positions, even reaching the WBF Vice-President.
John also received a national honors award for services to New Zealand bridge.
A talented player, he was part of his adopted country's national team and for over 40 years had a weekly article for the Christchurch Press which was reported by the Otago Daily Times one of the top 4 newspapers in New Zealand.
John suddenly disappeared while in his home on March 13, 2023.