John L. Waelchli, 79, of McCracken, Kansas, passed away Friday, November 26th, at his home.
John was born July 9th, 1942, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, the son of John and Laverne Waelchli.
He grew up in Ohio and graduated from Boardman High School in 1960.
He joined the US Navy in 1960 and served for 6 years.
On September 5th, 1970, he married Carol J. Benjamin who preceded him in death on April 3rd, 2020. They lived in California, Washington, New Mexico and then moved to McCracken in 2000.
John retired from GTE in 1999. He enjoyed training horses, cooking, shooting both bows and guns. He also loved his role as Santa Claus for the kids of McCracken.
He is survived by his only daughter, Dr. Jess Braun and her husband Curt of Hays, Kansas; grandchildren, Alec Waelchli, Isabelle Braun, Addie Braun, and Mabel Braun; and his two cats.
John was preceded in death by his parents; wife; and many beloved dogs and cats.
Memorials are suggested to the Hopkins Belize Humane Society. Tax deductible donations can be made to the Belize Economic Development Fund with HBHS in the memo and mailed C/O Clara Lee Arnold, 1401 W Sage, Tucson, AZ 85704
Condolences or remembrances may be left for the family at www.janousekfuneralhome.com.
Arrangements were by Janousek Funeral Home, 719 Pine Street, P O Box 550, La Crosse, Kansas 67548, 785/222-2517.