John Richard Whetzel, age 75 of Moorefield, WV, passed away Thursday morning, May 22, 2025, at the Grant Memorial Hospital in Petersburg, WV. Born on August 17, 1949, in Keyser, WV, John was a beloved son of the late Paul Richard Whetzel and Madeline Bradford Whetzel Dolly. He was preceded in death by his cherished wife, Nancy May Shockey Whetzel, in February 2006, as well as a son, Brian Dale Whetzel, two grandchildren and a brother.
John proudly served his country as a Veteran of the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War. His patriotism ran deep, and he lived his life with a fierce love for his nation. He was known for his heartwarming chuckle and zest for life, often found cheering on his beloved Pittsburgh Steelers and Pirates, or enjoying his favorite shows like Judge Judy and old Westerns. A game show aficionado and an avid scratch-off ticket player, John’s playful spirit and youthful enthusiasm charmed everyone around him.
Surviving are two sons, Landon (Jennifer) Steward of Moorefield, WV and Jason (Shannon) Whetzel of Pittsburgh, PA; two daughters, Tondia (Mark) Whetstone of Moorefield, WV and Vickie (Anthony) Smith of Petersburg, WV; a sister, Betty Ann Cannon of Burlington, WV; twenty-two grandchildren and a gaggle of great-grandchildren.
In celebration of John’s remarkable life, funeral services will be conducted 1:00 PM Wednesday, May 28, 2025, at the Fraley Funeral Home Chapel, 107 Washington Street with Pastor Steve Davis officiant. Interment will follow in the Bethel Cemetery, Old Fields, WV with Military Graveside Rites Accorded by the U.S. Army and the Moorefield Veteran’s Honor Guard. The family will receive friends from 11:00 AM until time of services on Wednesday.
To share your memories or offer condolences, please visit John’s Tribute Wall at www.fraleyfuneralhome.com, and let’s celebrate the love and laughter he shared with us all.
