John Whaley
John P. Whaley, born on October 15, 1963, in Marshalltown, passed away after a courageous battle with cancer on March, 17, 2024. He graduated from Marshalltown in 1982 and married his high school sweetheart, Janelle, in 1985. John worked as a mechanic until he faced lymphoma in 1995. Following a bone marrow transplant in 1996, he continued to lend his skills to local farmers. Over the years, he worked as a farmhand and over-the-road truck driver for Flynn Bros, Roland Transport/Key Coop and Agriliquid.
John found joy in simple pleasures like fishing, hunting and taking scenic drives while making a valiant effort to never take the same route twice. He cherished his community and was always ready to lend a helping hand to neighbors and farmers in need. Truck and tractor pulls were among his favorite pastimes, along with relaxing under a shady tree.
Through all of life’s journeys, John stayed close with his bone marrow donor, Vince Langerud, of East Grand Forks, ND. They enjoyed traveling and fishing together, as well as attending most major life celebrations for each other’s families.
John is survived by his loving wife, Janelle, their sons Ben (Kelcie) Whaley and Brian (Kristen) Whaley, grandchildren: Harrison, Kamryn and Grayden, as well as his siblings Terry, Scott and Krista. His parents, Johnny and Phyllis Whaley, also mourn his passing.
A Celebration of Life service will be Tuesday March 26th at 2:30 pm at Salem Lutheran Church in Roland. The family will receive friends from 12:30 until the time of the service at the church.
In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established in his name.
Soderstrum Funeral is entrusted with arrangements.