JOHN Chapman was working as a relief worker when he and three other British nationals were suddenly killed in a drone strike in Gaza.
The ex-marine was a loving husband and father to three children in Poole.
John’s son, Kane, 28, said: “I don't know how to articulate how much he meant to me, my dad meant everything.
“He was this constant overwhelming support system.”
His wife, Tarnia, 57, wants John to be remembered as the loving and kind man she fell in love with.
Tarnia and John got married in 1990 after falling in love when she was 15.
Speaking on her late husband, Tarnia said: “Words can’t comprehend how much I miss him, we’re used to him being away for long periods of time so it’s challenging having to keep telling yourself he’s not coming back.
“Only in time will you begin to really absorb that.
“He was so intrinsically part of me. I forgot that he was a separate human being.”
John’s daughter Fern, 23, said: “John's allowed us to all come out as individuals, and he had so much pride for everybody, regardless of what they do.
“As long as they were happy, he was happy.
“The impression that he left on so many people is so amazing to see.”
Spencer, 25, and John’s youngest son said: “We used to have a boat in Dubai for a little bit and storms would come in and everyone else in the boat was all scared because it was a big storm with massive waves.
“I’d turn around to look at my dad, he's just there smiling, happy as Larry.
“He was the sort of person to find a joke that makes you laugh or the whole room laugh and then go, all right, that one works.
“I'll do it ten more times just to see. But then, each time he'd progressively add something to it to get that extra laugh out.”
When asked how to sum up John in three words, the family responded: “Loving, kind and generous.
John’s funeral will take place on May 25.
Before the service, from 10.45am, the cortège will travel along and around Poole Harbour where John loved to kitesurf.
This is to give anyone wishing to pay their respects an opportunity to do so.
Further details can be obtained from the funeral director on 01202 879289.
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