John Wesley Maggert

John Wesley Maggert, 54, of Tampa, formally of Fort Walton Beach, FL., passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, July 30, 2008. He was the loving son of the late Donald and Alta Maggert of Fort Walton Beach. John was also preceded in death by his paternal grandparents, James and Ina Maggert and his maternal grandparents, Frank and Isabelle Kerfoot, all from Oklahoma.John, or “Wes” as he was known by his family and childhood friends, was born in Albany, GA on July 15, 1954. He was a graduate of Choctawhatchee High School, Class of ’72. John excelled in competitive water skiing and enjoyed show skiing with the FWB Aquamarine Water Ski Club.John went on to graduate from the University of Florida and remained a loyal Gator throughout his life. After graduating, he moved to Atlanta, GA where he began his sales career as a medical representative. John established a distinguished career in medical sales with Abbott Laboratories where he won many awards and commendations. After John became the loving father to James, he restricted his travels to the Tampa area to be close to his son. John worked for the Tampa area Yellow Book, where he again won several sales awards.John was well known for his big smile and hearty laugh. He always had a kind word and helping hand for those in need, making sure that people knew he was only a phone call away.Anyone who came in contact with John was immediately aware of his love, and somewhat spiritual connection to animals. John was rarely seen without Max, his beloved German Shepherd, at his side. John made sure to pass that love and respect for animals to his son, in whom he was immensely proud. As he spoke of his son, James, John absolutely beamed. James was the eternally bright light in John’s life. James adored and loved his dad very much; he will miss him greatly. John Wesley is survived by his beloved son, James Weston; and James’ step-brother Joey and step-sister Nicole; one brother, Mark (Sandi); and two sisters Donna (Van) and Connie; two nephews, Anthony and Sean; five nieces, Lauren, Paityn, Emily, Moriah and Hannah; several aunts, uncles and cousins; and numerous wonderful and loving friends. All will miss him dearly, and pray that he is resting in peace.Friends and family members are invited to attend a memorial service beginning at 1 p.m. Monday, August 11, 2008, at MacDonald Funeral Home, 10520 N. Florida Ave., Tampa, FL 33612.Send online condolences to macdonaldfuneral.com.(Paid Obit 8-8-1)