In one action over 25 years ago, John Raynor Cole JP ensured the prosperity of the wider Rotorua community.

With power boards dis-established under electricity reforms, John chaired a public meeting to decide the future of millions of dollars.

The vast funds available were barely touched, despite a decision to distribute $1000 to each household.

Should the bounty divert to the Rotorua District Council, or should it defer to a trust?

The vote was split 3-3 by the committee set up to decide the future of the cash. John used his casting vote, which side-stepped a will for the council purse (and ostensibly wipe a debt) to form a trust.

A committee which John Cole, who died suddenly last week, then also chaired was set up. He survived a vote of no confidence – again using his casting vote.

As he told it, one of those opposed to the formation of what is now the Rotorua Energy Charitable Trust inimically placed a fist within inches of his nose.

The pair never reconciled over the years, yet the trust became a significant benefactor to many funding projects in the district.

Contributions to underground power delivery, the Rotorua Energy Events Centre and such projects as the Baths House which facilitated a completion in 2008, annual lakeside concerts and expansion of the Sir Howard Morrison Performing Arts Centre became in effect John Cole's legacy, not that his thought processes included personal grandeur.

Nor was the lower end of the community forgotten. Twice each year, while building an impressive portfolio with a capital case seldom below $140 million through sound management, funds were distributed to hundreds of small groups in need.

And all through two significant casting votes.

Holding extreme views, John Cole was a prominent member of the National Party. His voice was rubbled and loud, and he made his points with resounding emphasis.

Recently, he attended a dinner marking the 25th anniversary of the trust his casting vote established.

His influence spread beyond Rotorua. After campaigning successfully for Todd McClay, he turned to Tauranga to help Simon Bridges in his campaign against Winston Peters.

A close friendship developed, resulting in Simon's attendance at yesterday's funeral.

He owned a farm in Mamaku. When sold, as he and his devoted wife Jocelyn moved to town, he was in the news again for his land fetched over $1million.

He was of and involved in the community his close friend Ron Hope said in tribute before 300 mourners at the Distinction Hotel.

He was involved in the heart and diabetes foundations and veterinarian club in official capacities.

In disposition, outside politics, John Cole was affable and enjoyed a good laugh.

At 6ft 5in (195cms) he was imposing, able to back it with a firm grip, his hands as big and as heavy as a barbecue plate.

John Cole died following several years of poor health.