John Hall

He was a Scout leader in Sheffield for more than 50 years. In that time, he gained a certain reputation for his unique wit and enthusiasm, leading hundreds of adventures in the UK and overseas.

John's incredible achievements were recognised in the 2009 New Year's Honours List when he was presented with an MBE for services to Scouting by the Queen at Buckingham Palace.

John, who would have been 72 on Thursday, died on Tuesday morning at Sheffield's Hallamshire Hospital after a short illness.

Right up until his illness, John had been actively involved with inspiring the Scouts in Sheffield. He was particularly active with the Woodseats Scout Group, and could regularly be found at the centre of climbing, hiking and canoeing trips.

Pete Stevenson, who ran Woodseats Scouts for 30 years, said: "John's been a driving force, successfully bullying, cajoling, and encouraging generations of young people to get on with their adventures in Scouting. The number of hours he has spent wandering the moors, looking for lost and bedraggled young people on their expeditions is incredible. He devoted his life to Scouting – and over the years thousands have seen the benefit."

John led a colourful life. His career included working for the Military Police in Hong Kong, before he returned to Sheffield to work as a chemist. He then took on a complete career change, becoming a probation officer and also working at the Cherry Tree hostel in Sheffield, helping vulnerable young people.

In Scouting, he has inspired more than 150 teenagers at the Woodseats group to complete the Queen's Scout Award – the highest award in Scouting. He also led the Duke of Edinburgh programme for the whole of South Yorkshire, helping thousands to achieve their awards.

John's incredible popularity has been evident on a Facebook page which has been set up in tribute to him.

Emily Brown, 17, said: "John was the most inspirational person I have ever met. He will be truly missed. He was always there for the kids, and always put them first, and inspired us all to do what we're doing today."

Ged Desforges, 28, who spent his teenage years at Woodseats Scout Group, said: "John is the only true hero I've ever met. I'm sure it's impossible to count up the number of young people he has had a hugely positive impact on, but the number must be almost as big as his personality."

Miles Hill, 21, who is now an active climber after being introduced to the sport by John, said: "I'm not sure if it's possible to calculate how many people's lives he's affected, but I'm sure it's a lot – and every one of them is better off for it. I'll always remember how he knew what I'd done or was thinking of doing, even before I did. And he was always there with a well timed word in my ear to probably think again. Sometimes we paid attention, sometimes we didn't. But I think that's what he wanted in a way."

Many of the teenagers who John inspired are now planning a suitably inspirational way to remember him. His funeral will be held on Monday at 11am at Ecclesall Parish Church.