Tributes have been paid to Douglas North MHK John Wannenburgh who sadly passed away last night.
President of Tynwald Juan Watterson has paid tribute to Mr Wannenburgh who passing away peacefully in his sleep.
The President said colleagues across Tynwald would be “shocked and saddened” by the loss of a friend whose energy, straight‑talking style and humour made him a distinctive presence in Manx politics.
Wannenburgh first became well known through his Sports and Dining Club, which brought high‑profile guests to the island and raised more than £250,000 for charity.
Since his election in 2021, he became closely associated with his work as Chairman of Manx Utilities, where he was known for championing “good news” updates, and for keeping the board informed of how long South Africa had held the Rugby Union world title.
He was also an active representative for the island internationally through the British‑Irish Parliamentary Assembly and the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association, and was already looking ahead to the 2026 election as a chance to highlight his work with DHA, DEFA and the Economic Policy Review Committee.
Watterson said Wannenburgh took politics seriously but was also “the life and soul of any party”, with stories of the many celebrities he had met over the years.
He leaves behind his wife Lisa and their three sons.
