Former British soldier who was world’s oldest man dies at the age of 112
A former British soldier who became the oldest man in the world and lived through two World Wars has died aged 112.
John Tinniswood was born on 26 August 1912 and during the Second World War he served with the Royal Army Pay Corps.
During his service he was tasked with locating stranded soldiers as well as organising food supplies and accounts.
Mr Tinniswood passed away at a care home in Southport and his family said: "His last day was surrounded by music and love.
"John had many fine qualities. He was intelligent, decisive, brave, calm in any crisis, talented at maths and a great conversationalist.
"John moved to the Hollies rest home just before his 100th birthday and his kindness and enthusiasm for life were an inspiration to the care home staff and his fellow residents."
He previously said he felt no different to be turning 112.
"I don't feel that age, I don't get excited over it. That's probably why I’ve reached it," he explained.
"I just take it in my stride like anything else. Why I've lived that long I have no idea at all.
"I can't think of any special secrets I have. I was quite active as a youngster, I did a lot of walking.
"Whether that had something to do with it, I don’t know. But to me I'm no different [to anyone]. No different at all."
During the Second World War, he married his wife Blodwen in 1942 whom he had met at a dance.
She passed away in 1986 after 44 years together. The couple had a daughter, Susan
After the end of his service in the British Army, he began working for Shell and BP until he retired in 1972 at the age of 60.
On 5 April this year he became the Guinness World Record holder as the oldest man in the world. At the time he was 111 years and 223 days old.
At the time of his death, he was 112 years and 91 days old.
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