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John Wilson Obituary
John was a beloved son, husband, brother, father and friend. He graduated from Male High School in 1984 and received a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology from the University of Kentucky.
John had a very deep love for his family, children, friends and was a remarkable soccer player and all around athlete, and worked diligently to continue his father's arts and craft business to ensure a lasting family legacy. John had a passion and appreciation for the outdoors, which included hunting, fishing and camping.
Preceded in death by his father, Thomas Dugan Wilson in 2009.
John is survived by his mother, Sally Walker; his wife, Denise Szelesta, his children, Dory May and George Woods; his siblings, Thomas Hunter, Lynn Wilson Ambrose and David Townsend.
Memorial service will be 11 a.m. Saturday, St. Francis in the Fields Episcopal Church 6710 Wolf Pen Branch Road, with burial to follow in Cave Hill Cemetery. Visitation will be held 4-7 p.m. Friday at church. Arrangements under the direction of Pearson's.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Brain Injury Association of KY. (www.biak.us) or The Salvation Army.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for John Wilson
Sponsored by The Wilson Family.
Woody Long
December 3, 2012
Checking back tonite and reading about John, I recall the brightest memory of my time with him. Someone was picking on the meekest kid in our 7th grade class. John, although smaller than the bully, faced the him down and walked the boy away with his arm around him. I'll never forget that as long as I live.
There is no one so strong as someone who will stand up for others.
There was no one like John. I miss you bud.
Meredith Jones
August 11, 2011
My fondest memory of John really describes how caring and compassionate he was. Two years ago, I had surgery and a few days afterwards, I went to go see Nutcracker on Ice and he was also there watching Dory skate. During the middle of the performance, I became ill and was taken to a hallway and waited for my mom to come take care of me. John came up to me and started chatting with me and kept me company. I remember him being so excited to see Dory skate and how happy he was seeing her and George. Those few minutes that he spent with me has left an everlasting impression on me. I truly believe that he had a big heart and sincerely cared for everyone. He continues to love you two kids no matter what. I'll be praying for you all in these days to come. I love you guys!
Lizzie Jones
August 10, 2011
Dear Dory, George and Denise
When I think of John Wilson I the man that was always I think of the man who would ask you about your day and sincerely be concerned if anything was wrong. I think of the man who I don't think i ever saw not smiling. The man who if i messed up my program or fell on a jump while he was visiting the rink, would tell me to get back out there and try again and never lost faith in anyone. But most importantly the man who loved his two shining star kids and meant the world to him. I am so sorry for your loss and pray for the three of you daily. I love you all, hang in there.
Beverly Jones
August 10, 2011
Dear Dory & George,
When I hear the name John Wilson, I always picture him coming through the front door at Iceland. Although he almost always wore a baseball cap, his grin was the first feature one noticed about him. And that grin would grow even bigger when he spotted you. Now when I look at you, I see his huge smile and kind eyes shining through you. He loved each of you so, so much. While he was at the rink, he also took time to be a great encourager and cheerleader for Meredith and Lizzie. I will always remember his friendliness and willingness to engage in conversation and discussion during all the times we waited for our children to come off the ice. Please know that we will always hold these memories and will continue to lift you and your mom in prayer. May you have comfort in the steady safeness of knowing that God is holding you in the palm of His hand.
Kathy Holder
August 6, 2011
Dory and George,
Molly and I have thought of you and your mom so often in these last few weeks. We are very sorry for the loss of your dad. He loved the two of you very much and his love and his memory will stay with you. Our deepest sympathy to you, your mom and all of the Wilson family. We love you.
Stuart Barton
August 3, 2011
John Wilson was one of the first people I met in Louisville when I moved there in 1980. He only lived 10 or so houses away from me on Evergreen Rd. We immediatley hit it off and were fishing and hunting together. We travelled together to South Georgia, Florida, and the metro Atlanta area over a 4 or 5 year time span. John was absolutely my best friend through high school and beyond. Several times we left Kentucky to go to Georgia and fish at the Sportsman Club. Together we caught a hundred catfish and gigged tons of frogs and even a Water Moccasin that we made into a hat band. That band unfortunately started to smell but our memories of it were fresh.
John was a friend of my soul and I will forever miss his light hearted laugh and challenges to me to push the envelope. I am selfishly happy to have spoken with him shortly before his passing. I am certain he is with our Lord almighty and laughing at me as I miss a fish or passing bird. He never missed many.
In loving memory of JWW,
Stuart
Leah Carey
August 2, 2011
You have been like a second family to me for as long as I can remember. I love you all and know that your positive spirits will get you through this difficult time. I'll always be there for you just as you have been there for me. I love you more than you know!
Beth Freibert
July 31, 2011
Dear Wilson Family,
It's been several weeks and it's still difficult to believe that John has preceeded us in life. He was a person of great character!! Even in high school, he was always willing to lend a hand to help someone or to stand up for what he believed was right or to ease tension with a joke. He loved life and lived it the fullest.
John was also instrumental in organizing our LMHS Class of 1984, 10th and 20th reunions. There were certain milestone years that were important to him and he was there to make sure that those reunions took place.
I am sure by now John has heaven rock'n with Van Halen and showing everyone how to play "air guiter". He will be greatly missed, but the fond memories of him will last forever.
May the days, weeks and months ahead of you get easier.
With sincere sympathy,
Heidi Whitlow
July 29, 2011
My fondest memory of John is seeing him sitting beside Denise in the hospital while she held a tiny, barely 5 lb. Dory, who was only days old. John was beaming, grinning from ear to ear, so proud he looked as if he could burst.
I see that smiling face living on in little Georgie and pray that the children can keep hold of the memory of how very much their Dad loved them.
My condolences to Denise, Dory, Georgie and all of John's family.
Tom Knepshield
July 28, 2011
John was my brother throughout my life. There is no person more loyal to me than John. We have made the greatest accomplishments as well as the dumbest. The best thing about John was he was there when I needed him the most. He always made me feel that I was a good person and sure to do the right thing. In the last hour of his life I was grateful to thank him for always being there and I will be there for his family and children to keep peace in there world. John has a great loving family, a wonderful wife and children for him to look upon in his next life that he entered into. I know when it is my time I will find John waiting to show me the way. I miss brother John on this earth and look forward to uniting with him one day.
Katherine Steere
July 27, 2011
From childhood to present day, our memories of John are varied & numerous. Our hearts go out to his immediate family, Denise, & children. His legacy will continue on in those beautiful babies of his who wear his freckles with pride. We will never forget his smile, compassion & friendship. His loss is a tragedy. Love, The Steeres: Tevis, Katherine, Sophia & Samuel
Clay & Lisa Dalton
July 18, 2011
I am so sorry to hear about John. Our deepest sympathy goes out to all of you.
Rick Ary
July 14, 2011
Dear Sally and Wilson Family,
I am saddened to hear of John passing. I have good memories of John in the short time that I got to know him. The biggest measure I saw of John was the great loyalty he had from his friends and his pride in his family and his achievements. He was always enthusiastic and friendly to me and my sons. God bless all of you and give you strength.
Shannon Cooper
July 11, 2011
I am so sorry for your loss. Thank you for allowing me to take care of John during his last hours. May you find comfort and peace in God knowing John is at peace and is resting with his father. Take care - Shannon Cooper and the staff of 8 West UofL Hospital.
Elizabeth Pope Pichea
July 9, 2011
I have so many memories of John and will always remember his wonderful smile. He will be missed. My prayers are with his children and family.
Chamie and Ward Deters
July 9, 2011
Sorry to miss the services for John while up here in Mich. With the Schildt girls. Thinking of all of the Wilsons and good memories of John. Chamie remembers John as the first gentleman of her generation. He carried her suitcase into the Wilson's for her very first spendthenight with Lynn, and he did NOT dip her hand in hot water at Lynn's first slumber party. As an adult John was funny and forthright and loyal. We will miss him. Our hearts are with all of you. Love, Chamie and Ward
Gretchen Cowen
July 9, 2011
I"ll always remember John's great big generous heart and loyalty. I'm so sorry for this sad sad loss. My condolences to his family.
July 9, 2011
We did not talk for years. When we ran into each other at the Mall - it was if we had never lost touch. That is what made you so special. I will miss you my old FRIEND.
Mark K Swisher
Alicia Smaha Burr
July 9, 2011
So saddened to hear of John's sudden passing. He was a good man, and we will miss him. My thoughts and prayers are with all of the Wilson family during this time of sorrow.
With deepest sympathy,
Alicia Smaha Burr LMHS 84
Alicia Smaha Burr
July 9, 2011
I was so saddened to hear of John's sudden passing, and my heartfelt condolences go out to all in the Wilson family. He was a good man, and we will miss him dearly. I wish I could be there for the services, but am thinking of all of you today.
With deepest sympathy,
Alicia Smaha Burr-Class of 84
Liz Weldon Quail
July 9, 2011
I just heard of my old friend's passing a few moments ago and was very saddened. It is John's warm and wonderful smile that I will miss the most. He was a great friend to me for many years of my life and the world will miss his unique spirit. My thoughts and prayers are with each of the Wilson family and to John I can only say, "Thanks for the laughter you brought to my life"
Karen Hardy
July 9, 2011
We are so very sorry for your loss. Karen and Mike Hardy
Paige Peck Damron
July 9, 2011
My deepest sympathies go out to the Wilson family. John was a memorable part of my high school years. May you find that God's strength helps to carry you thru these very difficult times. My prayers are with you.
Amy Thompson
July 8, 2011
I was so sad to hear of John's death. He was so beautiful and talented. I have great memories of high school that I will always cherish. Every time I hear back in black I think of John and Hunter. I will hug my family tighter in John's memory as a reminder that every day is truly a gift.
Susan Silverman Strohmeier
July 8, 2011
My deepest sympathy to the Wilson Family. May you all find peace during this very difficult time. LMHS '84
scott prather
July 8, 2011
Very shocking news. My prayers and sympathies go with the family, may God bless and keep you all. God's grace upon you John.
Robin Roper McCoun, LMHS '84
July 8, 2011
I was shocked and saddened to learn of John's untimely passing. My sincere condolences to the entire Wilson family.
Ellisa Earley-Hidalgo
July 8, 2011
I am so sorry to hear of the loss of David's brother
Kevin Wigginton
July 8, 2011
May God be with the Family of John W. Wilson during this most difficult time. John and I were classmates together at LMHS 1984 and we will sorely miss him.
Jackie Coleman-Kellum
July 8, 2011
My thoughts and prayers go out to the entire family may God be with all of you at this time. John was my classmate, with deepest sympathy. LMHS class of 1984.
Dawn Corley
July 8, 2011
How sad I am to learn of John's passing. He was a vibrant part of my high school memories! Praying for your family in the days & weeks ahead. May you feel God's peace!
Wyman Marshall
July 8, 2011
Wilson Family,
We were shocked to hear of John's passing and are sending you strength during this difficult time! Please let us know if we can do anything for you.
Very truly yours,
Wyman Marshall, Meredith Alexander & Penny Robertson
Mark Juckett
July 8, 2011
Loud, smiling, fun-loving, funny, obnoxious, loving to be with people and a devoted friend is how I remember John. Although I haven't seen John in years, I'm sure he remained the same in many ways and I know he will be missed by those he loved and who loved him. I'm sorry for your loss.
Jeff & Nancy Davis
July 8, 2011
Our deepest sympathy to your entire family, you all are in our thoughts and prayers.
Abby Kunes
July 8, 2011
Even though we have been away from the Wilson family--we were greatly saddened to learn about John. Our prayers reach out to all of you during this very difficult time. Sally--I especially pray you feel Gods mightly love embrace you. Love ya
Jodi Patterson
July 7, 2011
So sad to hear about your loss John. My thoughts are with your family. I haven't seen you since high school but remember you were so cute.
John Cannon and Family
July 7, 2011
A vibrant smile, a firm handshake, a more than positive attitude; these are the traits of John Wilson that I know. I am proud to have known him.
We extend our deepest sympathies and prayers to his family.
July 7, 2011
Dear Wilson Family...I am very sorry for your loss. John was always very kind to me and I appreciated his friendship. I will keep your family in my thoughts and prayers. Lynnae (Cauble) Bussell-LMHS 1984
Cannon Family
July 7, 2011
A vibrant smile, a firm handshake, a rarely seen zest for life; just a few of the extraordinary traits that charactarize this man, John Wilson.
We extend our deepest sympathies and prayers to his family. May God bless you all.
Angie Rogers Nuttall
July 7, 2011
I am so very sorry to hear of John's passing. The memories I have of him and the fun summers make me smile. Your family is in my prayers. God Bless all of you.
July 7, 2011
John was always so gracious and caring of others. The last time I saw him he came by my house to visit me after surgery. He said he had to stop by to check on me and see if I needed anything. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family and all who loved him. Susan Kinney
Paul Frederick
July 7, 2011
So sorry to hear of John's passing. Great teammate and key player on our '83 state championship team. Great guy on and off the field. A bit on the mischievious side as I remember. Quite a character and well liked by so many.
Kelley Florman
July 7, 2011
Although it's been a very long time I still have to smile when I remember all of those long ago adventures with the Wilsons.Kinder more decent people I have not met since. I am so sorry.
Susan Reinhart-Kolb
July 7, 2011
So sorry. Your family and friends are in our family's thoughts and prayers. Susan Reinhart Kolb
HENRY WARD
July 7, 2011
Hunter,
Our prayers and thoughts are with you. Sorry for your loss.
Henry, Danny and Suzanne Ward
Lindsay West Robertson
July 7, 2011
Wilson family: you all were my home away from home, or second family my entire childhood. I can still remember Hunter and John teasing me like all big brothers do, while Lynn and I passed it down to poor Dave. I remember being shoved out of the french toast line on Saturday morning by John and his crew, and those green eyes and smile. We are praying for you all during this difficult time. May you find some peace in knowing he has rejoined his dad and is shining down on us all like the jewelry they both so loved! I am sure my mom is right there with them:) Love you guys!
Monice Covington
July 7, 2011
Our thoughts and prayers to the Wilson family on the loss of John, our classmate. Louisville Male High School, Class of 1984
Barbara Nefouse
July 7, 2011
I was so sorry to hear about John. You and your family are in our hearts and prayers. Barbara & Greg Nefouse
Dennis Collins
July 7, 2011
My thoughts and prayers to the Wilson family and friends.
Sabina Oldaker-Chambers
July 7, 2011
My heart goes out to all of you. I have so many fond memories of John. Anchorage School is were I first knew him. We held hands on a school field trip----seeing the movie "Oliver." I last saw him at Rumors not too long ago. He always warmed my heart.
David Riggs
July 7, 2011
John was always very kind hearted and spirited. He was very kind to me after I experienced a trama injury in 1984 while attending Male HS. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family and friends. He will be missed by many. RIP John and may the angels above hold you tight.
Molly Boland
July 7, 2011
So sorry for your loss, to all the Wilson family. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Johnny Harralson
July 7, 2011
The thoughts and prayers of the entire Harralson family are with the Wilsons at this tragic time. John will be missed tremendously by all of his family and friends. He was a big part of my mis-spent youth and I'll always remember those great times!
Hugh Pritchett, Sr.
July 7, 2011
So sorry to learn of his untimely passing. The Pritchett family has many fond memories of the entire Wilson family. God bless you through this difficult time.
July 7, 2011
My heartfelt thoughts are with you all. So many losses in such a short time.
Ruth Anne
July 7, 2011
I have so may stories of good times and bad with John. With his passing I have found myself remembering all of the off the wall stuff that we did through the lifetime that we had on this earth. I am who I am because of my friendship whit John. When it is my time, I am sure he will be there first so show me the way. God rest his soul.
Tom Knepshield
Mark Johnson
July 7, 2011
I am so saddened to hear about John's passing. I was in his class in High School at Male. He was someone to look up then as I am sure he was now. My prayers to his family and friends. When someone that loves life as he did has to leave us, it makes a big hole in those hearts that were close. Again, my sympathies. His memory will always be a positive one in my soul.
Vicky McLaughlin Smith
July 7, 2011
I am so sorry to hear about the loss of John. I have many memories of you all and growing up down the street on Evergreen Road! Keeping you in my thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.
Aimee Guthrie Kemper
July 7, 2011
My thoughts and prayers go out to the entire Wilson family. I have very fond memories of John.
July 7, 2011
Hunter, you and your family are in our thoughts and prayers. you were so supportive to john and I after Frank died i just want to you to know we are there for you. love your friends, heater and john o'callaghan
David Cork
July 7, 2011
My thoughts and prayers are with John and his family.
Molly McCarthy Adams
July 7, 2011
I am so saddened to hear about John. My deepest sympathies to all his family.
Amy Dietrich Goodrich
July 7, 2011
John and I shared so many wonderful childhood memories. He will always be remembered as a loving and caring person. The best next door neighbor ever!! Much love to his family. Amy Dietrich Goodrich
Jo Ellen Smaha Roberts
July 7, 2011
John was a very dynamic person. He had the most beautiful green eyes and a huge spirit. He will be missed. My heart goes out to his family.
Patrick Whelan
July 7, 2011
Rest in peace my friend.
Lucy Monin Webb
July 7, 2011
My heart goes out to each of you. My prayers are going up for John and all his Family. May God Fill You Each with His Grace
Michelle McCutchan
July 7, 2011
Many prayers go out to the Wilson family. I am sorry to hear of this loss. I went to high school with John, and it saddens me to hear this. My condolences to the entire family. May he rest in peace.
Michael Kraft
July 7, 2011
John you were always a good friend
Rebecca Sanderson-Schall
July 7, 2011
So very sad to hear of a friend and fellow classmates passing. My heart and prayers go out to the family.
Jennifer Smothers Campbell
July 7, 2011
I am so deeply sorry and saddened at your unexpected loss of John. My heart goes out to all of you at this tragic time. May he rest in peace.
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