My condolences to John's loved ones. I knew him from the climbing community and enjoyed our time together. I've attached an image from a photo shoot that we did shortly after he moved to Boulder. RIP, my friend.

Dear Larry and Beth,

I had no idea you lost your dear son when I ran into you, Larry at Crosswinds a couple of weeks ago.  My heart just breaks for you both. How does a parent endure such a loss?  

Just yesterday we were kids working at Nantucket bank and suddenly fast forwarded to   The last chapter with great memories (hold those dear) wisdom but great loss.

I am stunned and so very sorry for your loss.  My daughter tells me John was quite the guy and loved by all.  

Peace be with you.

Dear Beth,
I was very  saddened to hear of the sudden loss of your son. I’m sure he was a talented and very special person as you are. You and your family are in my prayers. Luigi 

Beth and Larry:

I am so sorry to hear of your loss.  I haven't been to Nantucket for a few years but still read the paper (and still am close to Betsy) and think of you and my year in Nantucket.  

I hope you accept my sympathies.

Donna Laconti

I was introduced to Johnny through the climbing community and a mutual friend when Johnny began climbing back in 2016. It was immediately clear how talented an athlete he was as Johnny immediately became skilled as a climber accomplishing more in his first year than what most can in years. What surprised me more than his talent athletically was his enthusiasm for others and the psyche that Johnny brought to every moment. It seemed to not matter what the subject or environment was, Johnny was all for it. He was a modern day intelligent, handsome and compassionate Jeff Spicolli. Johnny had an immense impact on multiple communities and his absence will be palpable. Rest in paradise Johnny! I can’t wait to shred mountains and go bouldering with you in the next one! 

Quite simply....I adored John. My daughter Bizzy commented that " you always had  a soft spot for John " and it was true. I got to know  John rather well as the sole parent chaperone for a swim/dive trip to Islamaroda, Florida when he was was in sixth grade. His energy,smile and enthusiasm was contagious. John on the first night with Nick as his roommate proceeded to hang up poster(s) in the hotel room!  I knew then I was in for an eventful week and John did not disappoint! 
John was an insanely handsome young man yet that was not part of his portfolio so to speak. Rather, John was inquisitive, well traveled, kind, gentle, kick ass surfer and just a solid human being. No doubt he is already checking the daily surf report in heaven.

We all miss you John .

Paula  Maloney

There wasn't a light that burned brighter. Johnny will be missed so deeply by so many. He had the ability to uplift someone just by being around them. He showed up fully and presently to every moment. He taught me so much. He will be profoundly missed and loved. I know that he is somewhere up there smiling, surfing  the galaxies, loving and missing us all back. RIP Johnny

My heart is broken for your family! The Cassity’s all loved John dearly! We looked forward every summer to seeing him and our visits at Cisco beach. We would see him coming coming over the dunes with his surf board and his flannel shirt and we knew summer had started. He made time to be with us and teach us  the life of being a real islander. The visits to St Louis weare wonderful for us and made us feel so special that you all took the time to be with us. The last memory I have was in 2015 we met at our house that we were moving out of and he was able to use an antique armoir that we had for his house- he was excited about it! John  will be forever in our hearts and we will think of him fondly when we remember our summers on the island! Love to your family.

OBITUARY

John William Whelden

August 22, 1990 – May 20, 2021

Crist Mortuary & Cremation and Mountain View Memorial Park

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