Kathie Hicks said the funeral was loud, just like John would have wanted. Many people talked about John at the funeral.

People had a lot to say about John, and that's what he liked, said Hicks. She talked to CBC Radio's St. John's Morning Show.

John was important for starting bar culture in St. John's. He started Big Ben's Pub and the Sundance Saloon with his family.

Hicks thought John was great at making people feel welcome. She liked that his funeral was crowded and full of memories.

Hicks loved hearing stories about John's legacy at the funeral.

John died on July 31 at 81 years old.

Hicks thinks the Sundance Saloon started the nightlife on George Street. The George Street Fest even began in the Sundance parking lot.

John also ran Uncle Albert's and Peppers during the disco era.

John helped start the Georgetown Pub, said Hicks.

Hicks said John knew everything about bars and pubs. He was involved in many nightlife places.

Hicks thinks nightlife in downtown would be different without John.

Hicks worked with John 30 years ago and remembers meeting him at the Sundance. She thought it was cool to work with him.

John was good at the bar business and taught Hicks about it.

Hicks said John was very smart and could see problems quickly.

Hicks will miss John's big personality. He was a good friend and business partner.

Hicks said John was kind and loved making people happy. He found places for people to have fun.

You can get our CBC News app for free and get updates. We also have a daily newsletter and a website.