John Elvin Whetstone

John Elvin Whetstone, 80, of Apex, passed away on May 31, 2026. John was born on August 26, 1945, in Bedford, PA, to the late Edwin (Paul) and Mary Lou Whetstone. Jack, as he was known, worked at IBM as a programmer for his entire career. Leading up to the 2000 “Y2K bug,” Jack discovered a coding error that could have been catastrophic for the company. His incredible attention to detail is a trait definitely reflected in his two sons, Michael and David.

​"Coach Jack," as he came to be known, was heavily involved in Apex youth sports, coaching kids for over 30 years. Beyond his dedication to the community, he was probably the happiest when he was on a fishing pier along the coast of North Carolina or on a fishing boat in Key West, Florida, with his sons.

Jack was a member of the American Contract Bridge League and achieved the rank of Sapphire Life Master amassing over 3500 points by participating in tournaments all over the United States.

​He will be lovingly remembered by his wife, Sue Whetstone of 57 years; his sons, Mike Whetstone (Kim) and David Whetstone; and his brother, Jim Whetstone (Barb). He also leaves behind five grandchildren, Alex, Anna, Addison, Tyler, and Emma; and two step-grandchildren, Tyson and Julia.

A memorial service will be held in honor of John on Friday, June 5, 2026 at 2:00 PM at Apex Funeral Home, 550 W Williams St, Apex NC 27502. Family will receive friends and guests following the service.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy can be shared below within “Add a Memory.” Apex Funeral Home is honored to serve the Whetstone family.