Sad news reached us last week when we were informed that vending stalwart Ernie Johnson – North East Vending had passed away. We first met Ernie a few years ago just as the company was celebrating its 40th year. Thereafter we met him at a few industry events and we were always struck at how much of a gentle and kind man with a great sense of humour he was. We warmed to him instantly. Although retired he kept in close contact with the industry, knowing everyone who was everyone after his tenure as AVA chairman 2001-2003.
A font of all knowledge we were delighted when Ernie reacted to our call for comments on what we thought might the oldest, still functioning, vending machine. He was one of the first to comment.
We have been asked by Sarah, his daughter, to not only thank everyone for their messages of sympathy but to publish the details of Ernie’s funeral. Former colleagues and friends will be made very welcome.
The funeral will be held on Wednesday 2nd May and the arrangements are as follows:
12.10pm church service at St. John’s church, Ashbrooke Road, Sunderland, SR2 7HQ
1pm Sunderland crematorium, Chester road, Sunderland, SR4 7RS
and afterwards at The Stadium of Light, Sunderland, SR5 1SU
We’re told that that the church is approx 1 hour from Newcastle airport, 45mins from Newcastle train station and 30mins from Durham train station and for anyone wishing to stay overnight there is a Hilton Garden Inn hotel, close to The Stadium of Light.
The family have received several requests from people wanting to make donations in memory of Ernie and they would like all donations to be made to Holy Cross Nursing Home via St Cuthbert’s Care. Some of you may know that Sarah and Phil’s Mum, Anne, is receiving palliative care in this home and Ernie would visit regularly to spend time with her.
Planet Vending has details of the bank account if anyone wants to make a BACS donation, so please get in touch with us here if you wish to make such a payment.
Otherwise, for card payments: Please call St Cuthbert’s Care on 0191 2280111 and ask for either Lesley or Peter in Finance, then state that you wish to make a donation via card in memory of “Ernie Johnson” for Holy Cross. Please have your card with you to enable the details to be passed over the phone.
Cheque Payment: Please make all cheques payable to St Cuthbert’s Care, but please make sure to mention that it is for Holy Cross in memory of “Ernie Johnson”, then send to:
St Cuthbert’s Care
St Cuthbert’s House
West Road
Newcastle upon Tyne
NE15 7PY
Our thoughts continue to be with the family.
