About Me

Who is John Edward Croft?

I’ve been blessed to have an amazing, adventurous life. My passion for travel and knowledge of different cultures has allowed me to meet many of you who I now call friends. 

Over the last several decades, you’ve been gracious enough to welcome me and my family into your homes, whether it be through physical trips and visits or through my annual Croft Chronicle newsletter. I’ve been able to share my family with everyone who’s made an impact on my life and I am grateful for those who’ve stayed in touch over the years. 

Being born in 1931, I’ve seen major historical events unfold throughout the world. Perhaps that’s why I’m so drawn to history, museums and famous gravesites. I grew up in Brunswick, VIC before my mother sent me to St. Patrick’s College in Ballarat for boarding school at a very young age. It was here that I met great friends and my love for nosey conversation was sparked! To this day, I will never shake the nickname, ‘Mr. Have-a-Chat.’

After I graduated, I got a job on an international cruise line as a dishwasher which took me up and down the Australian coasts, through the Pacific Islands and eventually to England. I took advantage of exploring each port city, but it wasn’t until I was back in Australia that I saw the most beautiful, unique woman- Joan Twiss. In 1955, I was visiting my mother living in Perth and I saw Joan at a dance at the Embassy Ballroom. I was in my mid-twenties and was instantly smitten. After building up the courage, I finally asked her for a dance and happened to get the last spot on her dance card. It was fate. In my charmingly cheeky nature, I walked Joan home from the dance that night and asked her for a kiss. She turned me down. A short time later, Joan and I married. We were fortunate to have four wonderful children: John, Suzanne, Jeanette and Robert. Our family grew to include nine grandchildren, who I could not be more proud of. It’s been one of my greatest joys in life to watch my family grow over the years! 

Unfortunately, on 17 June 2014 we lost my best friend and wife, Joan. She had originally been in the hospital for cancer treatment in 2013 and eventually picked up a nasty super bug called Pseudomonas while there, which shut down her organs. I miss her every day.

I’m lucky to have been able to travel around the world many times, visiting Joan’s homeland of India as well as seeing my grandkids in America. I’ve caravanned through Europe on several occasions and made great memories with family. All my worldly adventures would not have been possible, or as enjoyable, if it wasn’t for each and every one of your smiling faces. 

I hope to see you all again one day. 

From my family to yours- lots of love,

John Croft