John passed away peacefully while recovering from a recent fall. Before John retired August 1970 in Monterey, he had a very distinguished military career. During his 22 years in the US Army which he proudly served, he was a Private in Reserve Officer Training Corps at St. Louisville Male High School, Louisville, Kentucky. Was nominated as a midshipman in the US Naval Academy 1944, but failed the physical exam because of a hernia. Was drafted at the age of 19 and required to enter World War II military service. Entered as a Private in the US Army in August 1944. He received an appointment to the U. S. Military Academy at West Point July 2, 1945 and graduated 1949. Married Faith J. Hall his sweet heart, in a full West Point style wedding in June 1949 in Ithaca, New York. They began a life together as a military family. Faith faithfully took care of the home and family in every place and circumstance. They lived and traveled twice in Germany and various state in the United States through their military career. John received the following decorations and awards throughout his military career while in the US Army: WW II Victory Medal; American Campaign Medal; Korean Service Medal; Bronze Star w/Oak Leaf Cluster; Army Occupation Medal (Japan); United Nations Service Medal; National Defense Service Medal w/oak leaf cluster; 4 O/S Bars; Vietnam Service Medal; Vietnam Campaign Medal; Combat Infantryman Badge 2D Award; Vietnam Cross of Gallantry w/Silver Star; Air Medal; Vietnam Honor Medal. After retirement John became realtor/broker in Carmel, California. He also did various jobs throughout his retirement. John was a full time care giver for his brother-in-law for four years. In 1995 he lovingly became a care giver to his wife because of her stroke. His wife of 58 years, Faith Juanita Hall, predeceased him in 2007 and his oldest son James Wightman in 2010. He is survived by their children: Patricia Wightman, Susan (Steve) Banta, Joseph (Karen) Wightman: 10 grandchildren and 3 great grandchildren.
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Events
burial Details:
10:00am
October 30, 2014
San Carlos Cemetery, 792 Fremont Street, Monterey, CA 93940
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