John Whelpley

Devoted Husband, Caring Father, Proud Grandfather Son of John Robert Whelpley and Alice Olsen Whelpley, was born in New Bedford, Massachusetts, on January 11, 1921. He grew up in the beautiful seaside New England village of Mattapoisett, Massachusetts, until entering the service in 1943. He enjoyed his New England roots and returned often to share his experience with friends and family. John graduated as Valedictorian from Fairhaven Massachusetts High School in 1938. John was an excellent athlete and after high school played on the town baseball team, enjoying games around the Cape and Martha's Vineyard. John enlisted and served in the US Army during World War II. As a member of the 749th Tank Battalion in the European Theater of War, John earned two Battle Stars. While visiting his sister in North Dakota he met and, in 1947, married Harriet Porter. They were happily married until her death in 2005. John graduated at the head of his class from the University of Minnesota Business School in 1952. He enjoyed a long career in business, with 35 years employed at Pillsbury. John was also an active volunteer at Children's Home Society in their childhood literacy programs, United Way, and Junior Achievement. Many more charitable organizations have felt his positive impact over the years. He believed in giving back and was known for his enthusiastic participation and commitment to excellence. He was active in politics, loved bridge, golf, and was a 40-year-member of Chapel Hills United Church of Christ. He is the brother of Gladys Whelpley Kiam (deceased) and is survived by son Dennis Whelpley (Pat), granddaughter Heather Whelpley and grandson Christopher Whelpley (Robin) and his daughter Jeanette Whelpley Klauder. John was a devoted husband, caring father, proud grandfather and good friend to many. His bright light will be missed by all. A service will be held at Chapel Hills United Church of Christ, 6512 Vernon Ave. S, Edina at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, January 29 with visitation 1 hour prior to the service. If you would like, please send memory gifts to Chapel Hills Church or Park Nicollet Methodist Hospice. Washburn-McReavy Edina Chapel 952-920-3996

Tributes

John Whelpley

January 2, 2011

Tributes

John Whelpley

January 2, 2011

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