It is with great sadness we share the passing of John Jansson on Sunday May 25. John was a lifelong Rhyll resident and dedicated life member of the Phillip Island & District Historical Society. He was an engineer, boatbuilder, historian, author and connected to countless community associations but most of all a true gentleman. John passed away at age 76 after a period of declining health due to Parkinson’s disease.
Born into one of Phillip Island’s oldest maritime families, John was a quiet force behind the preservation of our island’s stories. He was Dux of his year at Wonthaggi Tech without fail, and earned a degree in civil engineering from Melbourne Uni, leaving his mark on many local projects—including the Grand Prix Circuit.
John was a skilled boatbuilder, Alfa Romeo enthusiast, and a tireless contributor to local history. From documenting shipwrecks with Flinders Uni to publishing a number of books including the compilation of every Western Port shipping movement, John’s work was meticulous and enduring. He also built a comprehensive Phillip Island family tree and reconnected countless families through his genealogical research.
Though reserved, his warmth and intellect left a lasting impression on all who knew him.
To lose John feels like the end of an era. His legacy will live on through the boats he built, the stories he saved, and the hearts he touched.
Thank you, John. You will be deeply missed.
Phillip Island’s History Museum is located at Berninneit, the brand new cultural and community centre in Cowes. Read more on Berninneit here: Berninneit – new cultural centre in Cowes | Engage Bass Coast The link will take you to the website of Bass Coast Shire Council.
