John L. Whaley

John Leslie Whaley, age 64, died Saturday, November 9, 2024 at Javon Bea Hospital in Rockford following a sudden illness. He was born September 6, 1960 in Oregon, IL the son of William Edward Whaley and Rose Marie (Carpenter) Whaley. John graduated from Stillman Valley High School in 1980. He worked at his father’s machine shop ( W.W.L. Manufacturing) for several years. He then went to work for Bridgeway (formerly Growth Enterprises). He liked to collect sports items. He also enjoyed music and doing puzzles. He enjoyed attending his men’s Bible study group and his bowling league when he was younger. He was a devoted faithful Christian, a lifelong Bears and Cubs Fan. John was predeceased by his father William Whaley and his grandparents. He is survived by his mother Rose Whaley; his siblings Kathy (Scott) Wilkinson; William (Ann)Whaley, Jr.; Kim (Ron) Boyer; Corrine (Bill) Slindee; Chuck Brown; and Robin (Tom) Franklin; 7 nephews, 5 nieces, and 14 great nephews and great nieces. The family wishes to express their gratitude to the doctors and ICU staff at Javon Bea Hospital. Their medical care and compassion to John and the family was extraordinary. A private graveside service will be held at the Byron Cemetery with the Pastor Randy Snider officiating. A memorial fund is established in John’s name for the American Heart Society Research Department and may be directed to his family.