London — The world’s oldest man, John Tinniswood, died at the age of 112 in the retirement home where he lived in Southport, northwest England, Guinness World Records announced Tuesday , citing his family. Tinniswood was born in Liverpool on August 26, 1912 and died on Monday.
He became the world’s oldest man in April following the death of Venezuelan Juan Vicente Perez, 114 years old.
“His last day was surrounded by music and love,” the family said in a statement, also thanking “everyone who cared for him over the years.”
Born the same year the Titanic sank and having lived through both world wars, Tinniswood told Guinness World Records that the secret to his longevity was “pure luck”.
Guinness World Records via AP
“You either live a long time or you live a short time, and there’s not much you can do about it,” he said.
However, he advises exercising moderation in all things to stay in good health.
“If you drink too much, if you eat too much or if you walk too much, if you do too many things, you will end up suffering,” he added.
During the Second World War, Tinniswood held an administrative role in the Royal Army Pay Corps, before working in the accounts of oil giants Shell and BP.
He was a lifelong supporter of Liverpool Football Club and ate fish and chips every Friday. Staff at his care home in Southport described Tinniswood as a “big talker”.
Japanese Tomiko Itooka is currently the oldest woman in the world, aged 116.
