R.I.P. John Byfield

[marion....@gmail.com]

                We learned today of the passing of John Byfield. John was likely the most prolific experienced guide dog trainers who ever lived – and that is not hyperbole. John began training guide dogs in the U.K.when he was twenty ears old. He trained my current guide dog, Trooper, when he was eighty-three. Trooper was not his last dog to train but nearly.

 

                The National Association of Guide Dog Users had the pleasure to be addressed by John on many occasions. In fact, my wife, Merry Schoch, interviewed John for the 2020 NFB of Florida state convention. I will search my archives to find this recording and post it where everyone can hear his voice and witness his love of the work he did. John will be deeply missed in the blind community. R.I.P., John Byfield!

Fraternally yours,

Marion Gwizdala

 

[Buddy Brannan]

Oh wow. This is indeed sad news. John was a real class act. I knew this even before I met him. I did get to meet him briefly once several years ago, and he complimented my (owner trained) guide at the time. And let me tell you, when a guy of that calibre and with that much experience says you’ve got a good dog, that carries some weight. John was one classy guy, well respected, and will be missed by the community. Literally guide dogs were his life’s work, and we’re all better for John Byfield being here.

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Buddy Brannan, KB5ELV, WRVB670 - Erie, PA
Email: bu...@brannan.name
Mobile: (814) 431-0962

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[Kerry Macdonald]

This is such sad news. He will be dearly missed.

I was lucky enough to be able to train with him for three out of my four guide  dogs. I have so many fond memories of him.

If you could find that recording, I know I for one, would really love and appreciate hearing it.

Kerry

Sent from my iPhone

On Mar 18, 2026, at 3:32 PM, marion....@gmail.com wrote:



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[Kerry Macdonald]

Yes, indeed, he was a real class act. This is well said.

Kerry

Sent from my iPhone

On Mar 18, 2026, at 6:02 PM, Buddy Brannan <bu...@brannan.name> wrote:

Oh wow. This is indeed sad news. John was a real class act. I knew this even before I met him. I did get to meet him briefly once several years ago, and he complimented my (owner trained) guide at the time. And let me tell you, when a guy of that calibre and with that much experience says you’ve got a good dog, that carries some weight. John was one classy guy, well respected, and will be missed by the community. Literally guide dogs were his life’s work, and we’re all better for John Byfield being here.