25 August 2026
Northern Ireland Travel News was saddened to learn of the passing of long-standing contributor John Trew.
Well known throughout the media world, John and and his wife, Karen, shared their love for travel and exploration with many, most notably within our monthly column, ‘Trew’s Travels’. Our readers were truly graced with tales spanning over 20 years, many of which spoke of fantastic eateries, stunning hotels or just good old Northern Irish charm. John will be fondly remembered by those who had the pleasure of working with him, including Managing Director Jonathan Adair who shares memories of his time working alongside John at the News Letter and then later as a columnist for NI Travel News.
Taking to facebook, John’s family announced his sad passing, sharing:
“My Mum, Karen, and I are heartbroken to share that my darling dad, John, died peacefully yesterday after a three week stay in hospital. He went out in great Trew style listening to Van singing “Have I told you lately that I love you”.
“My Dad was a truly inspirational man: An award winning writer, a gifted artist and a great wit and raconteur who could hold a whole room. Above all he was the most wonderful husband to Karen. They shared 65 years together. He was my beloved Dad, a much-loved father-in-law to my husband Henry, and the adored Papa John to his grandson Simon and Big Brother to Gary.”
John’s funeral will be held at Clark and Son’s, 64 Newtownards Road, at 12.30pm on Tuesday 1st September, followed by his burial at Clandeboye Cemetery at 2pm. His family has encouraged all who knew and loved him to come and celebrate his life.
They continued,
“Dad cared deeply about others, and rather than flowers we know he would love donations in his name to two causes close to his heart. Adsum provides clean water pumps to some of the poorest communities in the world https://adsumfoundation.org/donate/ , and AMMF, a bile duct cancer charity https://ammf.org.uk Any gift, however small would mean a great deal to us and carry his kindness forward.”
