John Arthur Walgreen

May he rest in peace.
John Arthur Walgreen, 86, of Mansfield, Massachusetts, passed away peacefully on February 8, 2025, in Tampa, Florida, surrounded by his loving family. Born in Milton, Massachusetts, John was the son of the late John R. and Louise (Maynard) Walgreen. He was the beloved brother of the late James Walgreen and the late Joseph Walgreen and is survived by his brother Jeffrey Walgreen and his sister Janet Stiller.
A devoted husband, John shared a beautiful life with his beloved wife of almost 60 years, Sonia Mejia Walgreen. He was a proud and loving father to Albert and Philip Walgreen and Alice Marks, and a cherished grandfather to Jack and Annalise Walgreen, Meredith Young, and Benjamin and Jackson Marks. He was also a beloved uncle to many nieces and nephews.
John was a scholar and a dedicated educator. After graduating from Braintree High School, he pursued higher education at Boston College, earning a Bachelor of Arts, a Master of Arts, and a PhD in Economics. He went on to inspire generations of students as a Professor of Economics at Wheaton College in Norton, MA, where he taught from the late 1960's until his retirement in 2008.
His service to his country was a source of deep honor. During the Vietnam War, John served as an officer in the Army in the Office of the Secretary of Defense. His commitment continued for over three decades as a member of the Army Reserve, retiring with distinction as a Colonel. He was also a proud member of the First Corps of Cadets in Boston.
Beyond his professional and military service, John was an integral part of his community. He was a devoted member of St. Mary's Catholic Church in Mansfield, where his faith guided his life. He also served as a trustee for the Mansfield Public Library and as a Bank Director for the Mansfield Bank.
John's warmth, optimism, and unwavering love for his family defined his life. A dedicated fan of Boston sports, he could always be found cheering on the Red Sox. In retirement, he spent winters in Tampa, Florida, where he built a second home filled with friendship, faith, and walks along Bayshore Boulevard. During his time in Tampa, he developed an affinity for the Tampa Bay Rays, joyfully adding them to the list of teams he passionately supported.
John had a deep love for reading, traveling, and music, always eager to explore new places, immerse himself in books, and enjoy his favorite melodies. He never passed up the chance to greet a friendly dog on his walks, delighting in every wagging tail.
John Arthur Walgreen's legacy of love, service, and faith will live on in the hearts of those who were blessed to know him.
A Funeral Mass will be held at 1:30 PM on Wednesday, February 19, at St. Patrick's Catholic Church in South Tampa. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his memory to the Guardian Angel Scholarship Fund at St. Mary's Catholic School, 330 Pratt St, Mansfield, MA 02048.