Jess Howard "John" Walsch

Graveside funeral services for Jesse H. Walsch, 81-year-old Buffalo, Wyoming resident who passed away December 14th at the V.A. Medical Center in Sheridan, Wyoming will be held by his family in the spring of 2025 in Willow Grove Cemetery at a time to be announced. Donations in Mr. Walsch's memory may be made to the St. Francis Animal Shelter at 109 Flatiron Drive in Buffalo, Wyoming 82834. Online condolences may be made at www.harnessfuneralhome.com
Jess Howard "John" Walsch was born on March 11, 1943, in Kewanee, Illinois to Edward and Vearl (Cross) Walsch. He was raised in several Foster Homes, and then to ISSCS (Illinois Soldiers and Sailors Childrens School) in Normal, IL. He attended Illinois State University High School, Normal IL.
Jess joined the U.S. Marines in March of 1960 and served during the Vietnam War. In 1964 he received an honorable discharge and returned to Decatur, Illinois where he built tires for Firestone Tire Co. Jess later became a Lineman for Illinois Power, and then went on to starting his own painting business.
Jess was married to Judith (mother of Jonathan) in 1964 (divorced in 1966) and then was married in 1968 to MaryAnn and they made their home in Decatur until their divorce in 1978.
After the divorce, Jess traveled across the country with his son, Jonathan, working several skilled labor jobs until his retirement. Jess settled in Buffalo, Wyoming approximately 9 years ago.
Jess is survived by one son Jonathan Walsch and his wife Denice of Port Angeles, Washington, one stepdaughter, Lisa Carter and her husband David Carter of Decatur, Illinois and one brother, Calvin Walsch and his wife Judy Walsch, of Decatur, Illinois. Jess has several grandchildren and great grandchildren.
Jess was preceded in death by his parents, one brother Edward P. Walsch Jr: sisters, Etta May Walsch, Laura Ellen Marks, and Ida May Parline.