John ('Johnny Ach') was a founder member of the Eilean Bàn Trust, its Chairman for five years, and without his hard work, support and especially his infectious enthusiasm, the Trust would probably not have been born. Together with the support of the Born Free Foundation, John rallied local support and negotiated with organisations far and wide to ensure the continuing care and management of the precious environment of Eilean Bàn. He was the Trust's greatest ambassador, whose knowledge of the area, wildlife and Gavin Maxwell made him a great speaker.

John was also a popular figure throughout Scotland in the world of shinty, an excellent player and experienced referee, including being in charge of the international match between Scotland and Ireland in Inverness in October 2005.

He worked around the clock as harbour master and travelled widely in his endeavour to promote Kyle of Lochalsh as a harbour, in an effort to bring prosperity to his community. He is greatly missed.

John died early Wednesday 25 January 2006 of a heart attack at the young age of 50 and is survived by his wife, Alison, and five daughters.