John Wayne Bookwalter

John Wayne Bookwalter (Buddy) was born to Wayne and Camilla Bookwalter on April 23, 1939, in Pawnee City, NE. He lived in Burchard NE for the early years of his life, moving to Lawrence, KS when he was of junior high age. John spent his high school years at Lawrence High School playing football as a running back and punter, basketball, gymnastics, and running the high hurdles in track. He was extremely proud of his high school and graduation class and all they accomplished over the years. He worked on farms in the summers until completing college.

Upon graduation, John went to college at Nebraska State Teachers College Peru, NE where he played football and track graduating in 1960 with a Bachelor of Science in Education. During his sophomore year he met his lifelong love Beverly Mehlin whom he married on March 29, 1959 during his junior year. Upon graduation, they moved to Tehachapi, CA, where John taught high school. The following year he finalized his credential requirements at Fresno State and in 1962 moved to Visalia, CA where he taught and coached at Mt. Whitney for three years. John was employed by Dean Witter in 1965 and spent his 35 working years enjoying caring for his clients and their needs, considering them friends.

Upon moving to Visalia, John and Beverly joined Christ Lutheran Church, where they worshiped for the next 60 plus years, raising their family and forming lasting friendships with many members. John was active in leadership, service, worship, choir and leading Sunday School Music for over 30 years, with a love for the church they had helped grow.

John was a lifetime member of Visalia County Center Rotary, participating enthusiastically in all activities and in charge of the Rotary Exchange Program, hosting foreign students. He also was President of the Library Foundation Board during renovation of the Children's Library . He valued the free afternoons his work allowed so he could coach or attend all the events his children and grandchildren participated in, always a vocal spectator. Being in charge of Redwood Athletic Boosters and Choral Boosters and Chief of Indian Guides Nation were among his favorite activities.

His never-ending interests included playing tennis, horseback riding, boating, camping, driving wherever he wanted to travel, telephone time with friends, and above all spending time with family. He loved challenges and was forever optimistic in all situations. His life was centered around family, friends and faith, all blended with unlimited love and he will be missed so much by all who knew him.

John is survived by his wife of 64 years, Beverly; their children John, Greg, Lynn Peters and her husband, Tony; grandchildren Joshua, Jeremy, Taylor, Mackenzie, Logan and Megan; and his sister, Judith Bond.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held at Christ Lutheran Church on Monday May 22, 2023, at 11:00 am with a luncheon to follow.

Remembrances in lieu of flowers may be made to Christ Lutheran Church Celebration of Life Fund.