John Whitson Obituary
John passed away on September 8, 2022 at Cox Medical Center South in Springfield.
He was born on October 5, 1926 in Rushville, Illinois the son of Guy F. Whitson and Myrtle Haley Whitson. He was united in marriage to Bonnie Lee Downs on January 16,1949 and to this union was born two children.
John was a World War II Navy Veteran from 1943-1946.
He operated Plaza Bakery in Springfield for 23 years. In 1976 he built the Skateworld Roller Rink in Branson. John & Bonnie were like second parents to hundreds of children through this family owned business. He was a member of the the Branson Methodist Church.
Survivors are daughters; Janeen Schroll of Branson and Debbie Baker of Springfield. Two grandchildren, Seth Whitson and Leo Whitson. One great grandchild, Karsyn Schroll of Branson. He was preceded in death by his wife, Bonnie, son, Brian Whitson, grandchildren, Chanel Schroll and Ryan Schroll.
In lieu of flowers the family suggests memorials be made to: St. Jude Children's Research Hospital Memorial Processing St. Jude Children's Research Hospital 501 St Jude Pl Memphis, TN 3105-9959.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
2 Entries
Kim Walker
September 18, 2023
John was such a sweet man! Our family has many fond memories at SkateWorld and as members of the Branson United Methodist Church. I remember when John was honored as a survivor of Pearl Harbor and his speaking of his experience. He was a proud veteran, and he and Bonnie are both sorely missed, as is Bryan.
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Pam Bateman
September 12, 2022
I will always cherish all the Thursday morning I did Bonnie´s hair for many years and Johns bananas and goodies he would bring us from Sams while Bonnie was getting her hair done, all of us at the shop will be praying for u and your family, just know I will always remember Bonnie and John
Pam Bateman
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708 State Highway 248, Branson, MO 65616
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