In loving memory of

John C. Wakely
December 31, 1969 - December 31, 1969

John ?Johnny? Curtis WAKELY

passed away peacefully at home on 12-22-01 following a long struggle with liver disease. He is preceded in death by his mother Inez and father Jimmy Wakely, legendary singing cowboy. Born 1-29-44 in Hollywood, CA, Johnny enjoyed a charmed and star-studded childhood growing up around people of the silver screen. He performed as a musician with his father and sister Lindalee for many years throughout the country. He made his way to Seattle in 1984 where he formed his own band and shared his musical talent at a host of clubs. Johnny traded his guitar for a career in medical transcribing in 1995. His quick wit, warped sense of humor, and teddy-bear hugs will be missed by his loving wife Nancy, son Robert, daughters Wendy Johnson Doug, Tammy Nelson Lee, grandchildren, James, Jessica, Brittney, Nicholas, Jacob, Lindsey, sisters Deana Mayer, Lindalee Wakely, Carol Carowan and a host of friends that Johnny called ?family?. Johnny publicly declared his deep love and acceptance of Jesus as his personal Savior through Baptism in April of 2001. A celebration of Johnny?s life will be held Saturday 12-29 at 1:00pm at the Shoreline Free Methodist Church 510 NE 175th St. Memorials can be made to Hepatitis Foundation International-30 Sunrise Terrace, Cedar Grove, NJ 07009-1423. For more information, visit Johnny's website at www.johnnywakely.com.

Tributes

Evergreen Washelli wrote on Dec 21, 2012:

"Wendy Wakely"

Wendy Wakely wrote on Dec 21, 2010:

"Dad, I can't believe tomorrow you will have been gone for 9 years......and mom and James and your sisters Carol and Linda are now there with you....how things have changed...and we miss you so very much. Love, Wendy"

Corrie Hudson wrote on Mar 18, 2009:

"I am shocked and very saddened to learn just now of Johnny's death..I had a great crush on his Dad, Jimmy, and sent Johnny an e-mail about it and he answered it...said it meant a lot to him. I even chatted with him on ICQ and had no idea he had passed away..I am very sad."

Wendy Johnson wrote on Mar 18, 2009:

"Dad it's been almost a year......I miss you more than ever. Thanksgiving was lonely, no more of you one-upping my turkey. Christmas is not the same. I will be with you on Christmas this year. I love you and miss you like crazy!"

Tammy Nelson wrote on Mar 18, 2009:

"It has been a year since we last talked and I still hear your voice. I miss you very much! A lot of things have changed, but we will never forget you. Jacob & Lindsey miss their PaPa. "

Mike LeDoux wrote on Mar 18, 2009:

"great person,, gave me great advise,, always Michael LeDoux,,, LeDoux Records"

Joe Ferguson wrote on Mar 18, 2009:

"I love the cowboy singers especially. Roy, Gene, Eddie, and Jimmy. To know Christian cowboy singers means I will meet them in Heaven. Thanks for the website, Joe."

Jim Florence wrote on Mar 18, 2009:

""

Jack Evans wrote on Mar 18, 2009:

"I grew up in the 30s and 40s, and was an avid fan of Westerns. Jimmy was one of my favorites.Thanks for the website and photos."

P.D. Llewellyn wrote on Mar 18, 2009:

"A great voice, a classic blues artist. His contribution is appreciated far beyond the confines of C&W"

Mary Loney wrote on Mar 18, 2009:

"I am so sorry to hear this news, I never even imagined that Johnny was ill."

Meredith Dement wrote on Mar 18, 2009:

"I knew Johnny through his dear wife, Nancy. He was an unforgettable character... funny, terrifically talented, and loving. He is probably playing music now with a scratch band in Heaven!"

Donn and Nancy Moyer wrote on Mar 18, 2009:

"We will remember Johnny as we have his father. For their talent, caring and friendship."

Gene Jones wrote on Mar 18, 2009:

"I am sorry for Johnny's untimely passing...we had mutual friends in music and exchanged e-mails. He will be missed...Gene Jones"

Dennis Gapczynski wrote on Mar 18, 2009:

"May our dear Lord keep you near to his heart always... God bless you, your father Jimmy and all those dear to you both... "

P.D. Llewellyn wrote on Mar 18, 2009:

"A great voice, a classic blues artist. His contribution is appreciated far beyond the confines of C&W"

jackie Brooks wrote on Mar 18, 2009:

"Wendy, I remember your dads yelling, but I also remember his smile everytime we got into trouble, or we did one of our goofy things. keep your dad and all the memories close to your heart, always, and he will always be with you"

Jeff Gurevich wrote on Mar 18, 2009:

" A Mental Hero- he knew I was heading for a rough ride in life. His words of advice helped sooth some of the pain. He was unselfish and understanding. He was a good man. - say hello to heaven Johnny, I'll miss you."

John Heidrich wrote on Mar 18, 2009:

" I did not know you but love all you cowboy singers.The good Lord will take care of you now."

char leland wrote on Mar 18, 2009:

"We've said a prayer for Johnny and we hope he has a great view from up above. Bud and Char Leland"

SHARON CARTER wrote on Mar 18, 2009:

"I was so sorry to hear about Johnny's dead. He was a lot of fun when he would come to his dad's Radio Show at CBS in Hollywood in the 50's. My girlfriend & myself would go to the show every Sun after the Riverside Rancho with the Deacan Moore Radio Show and seat with Johnny's mom Inez and have a time laughing & get in trouble. Years later I would go to The Landmark and see JOHNNY & Lindalee singing with Jimmy or other places they were at. We when to Jimmy's Funeral and wished I knew about Inez's Funeral we would of been. I called Inez little mommy. Over the year's I would stop by and see Inez and Deanne & the grandkids. The last time I seen Inez at the house she just did ramember me a little bit. Everytime I go to Hollywood Hills I always stop and say hi to Jimmy & Inez & how much I miss them. I have a lot of good memorys in pictures of the Wakely Family."

Anna May Moss wrote on Mar 18, 2009:

"I am a friend of Laura and Paula. It was interesting readining some of the messages...God Bless the family. Anna May"

James and Darline Massie wrote on Mar 18, 2009:

"We were so sad to hear about Johnny. We were making plans to get together and hear some stories about Hershel Witt and Johnny. We enjoyed reading his webpage. The Massies"

Chris Purden McClish wrote on Mar 18, 2009:

"I was very saddened to hear of Johnny's passing. Although I never knew him really well, over the years I did get many opportunities to visit with him in a variety of settings. Sometimes it was in his home while Nancy was cutting my hair. More recently, it had been during the time Johnny was a patient of the surgical practice in which I worked in Seattle. Another time, I was driving along Northgate Way, oblivious to the flat tire I was developing when another car began to honk at me, trying to pull me over to warn me about it. When the other driver rolled his window down, I saw that it was Johnny. Likewise, he hadn't known it was me either until I rolled my own window down. Yet, he had been concerned enough to warn a stranger of a flat tire, regardless. That was the kind of guy Johnny was. He promptly pulled over with me and then proceeded to help me get my tire changed at a gas station nearby, even though this made him late in getting to his own destination. He was always a kind and funny man. I always enjoyed his company. Even throughout his many years of health problems, he never seemed to lack the ability to find something positive to be thankful for - and he never failed to find the humor in life. Be in peace, Johnny. You have left many behind who will miss you."

Arthur L Clinton wrote on Mar 18, 2009:

"I had emailed John a few times and always got a thoughtful and gracious reply. He seemed so down to earth and genuine. I know that I will miss him and offer my condolences to his family. Art"

Scott Hughes Myerly wrote on Mar 18, 2009:

"I am a curator of History at the Autry museum of Western Heritage in Los Angles, and I just wanted to pay my repects. "

Vic and Ruth Matson wrote on Mar 18, 2009:

" We met and got aquainted with Johnny through our daughter, Lora, who has been a friend of both he and Nancy for many years. He was a man who seemed to know no strangers, so made us feel comfortable. We were saddended to hear of his sudden death, and extend our sympathy and prayers to you, Nancy. May the Lord bless, keep and guide you as you continue to seek Him for strengt and comfort. Our Love & Prayers, Vic and Ruth"

Wendy Gregory wrote on Mar 18, 2009:

"Johnny was so full of life. His sense of humor, and funny way of talking to me. He was always to the point truth full. Even though it took a while to get to the point. He loved to talk. On my 21st Birthday he invited me to come to the Ballard Eagles to sing a few songs with his band. It was awesome the place was packed and Johnny made me feel secure standing in front of a full house. He said "you can do it watch me". I did and I did great thanks to him. He always was kind to me and to my children. He was extremely generous with his time and kindness and would keep me on the phone forever. When I would come over to see Nancy to get my hair done he was so kind he would hold my daughter Ashley while Mandy the dog would steal her binky. And we would laugh. He was a great guy and I am very much going to miss him. "

Wendy wrote on Mar 18, 2009:

"I just wanted to thank everyone who has signed here. It makes my heart proud of my Dad to hear how many wonderful things you are all saying about him. He is smiling on us now! Thank you"

Lora Matson & Paula Roffe wrote on Mar 18, 2009:

"We have known Johnny just over the last 12 years. But in that time, we were privileged to hear his band, listen to his smooth and beautiful music, and to become his friends. He was a blessing to us - he was funny and gentle and he loved us. We knew that he was there if ever we needed him. "Johnny, you can count on us to be there for your Nancy whenever she needs us. We love you and miss you!" -Paula and Lora "

Roy & Mary Ellerman wrote on Mar 18, 2009:

"We express our condolences to Nancy and all of Johnny's family. Johnny was great fun to know and he will be missed."

Mike Manning wrote on Mar 18, 2009:

"To all of the Wakely family, I am so sorry about Johnny's death. I had not heard about it until just a few minutes ago when logged on to the website. I have communicated with Johnny two or three times by e-mail. I logged on to do so again. I was sadly shocked. My thoughts and prayers are with you."

Liz Cavanaugh wrote on Mar 18, 2009:

"We will all be with you one of these days John and will enjoy listening to you singing and joking again."

Jerry Skaggs wrote on Mar 18, 2009:

"Always enjoyed the fellowship with Johnny and Nancy. Johnny's wit and humor was always an inspiration to all who had the privelege of being with him."

James Gurevich wrote on Mar 18, 2009:

"Grandpa, Thank you for giving me lots of real good memories.Im happy that you are in a better place where you can be healthy all the time.you were my favorite Grandpa, I love you."

robert e tomko wrote on Mar 18, 2009:

"enjoyed your dads website. am a fan of your grandfathers and now your dad. i'm sure he will be missed"

Jessica Gurevich wrote on Mar 18, 2009:

"grandpa,i miss you lots.i wish you were here ,but i know that you are in a better place.grandma nancy,aunt tammy,unlce lee,jacob,and lindsey,hang in there i know we will all see him again. love jess"

Marg Harding wrote on Mar 18, 2009:

"I was deeply saddened by the news of Johnny's passing. My condolences to Nancy, his children and grandchildren and his sisters. He will be missed by many."

Bill Brooks wrote on Mar 18, 2009:

"Dear Wendy, Nancy, We were sad to hear of your loss. I met Wendy in Simi Valley, Calif. She was about 12 or 13 years old. Some years later, after relocating to Kirkland, wa. We were invited to spend thanksgiving with Wendy, John and Nancy. John and I had a blast that day, we have the same kind of, you might say warped sense of humor. John and Nancy treated us like family and made us feel very welcomed in their home. I had a chance to see his band play a couple of times also, John always had the crowd laughing. I would like to thank you guys for the fond memories. He will be missed by all. Our deepest sympathy. Bill Brooks and Family "

Doug Johnson wrote on Mar 18, 2009:

"I sure enjoyed knowing Johnny the short time I knew him and wish I could have spent more time with him. I never got to hear him sing live, but enjoy his taped music. He had many qualities beyond his singing, and had I not been his Son-in-law, I know we would have been good friends. I truly enjoyed his sense of humor and we "clicked" in a lot of ways. He loaned me his fishing gear and took me and my wife, his daughter on a few trips that were so much fun. He had a lot to say and wish I could hear more of his interesting and funny stories he shared with me. I wish he could have gotten well, but I'm glad he's not sick anymore. I deeply appreciated his acceptance of me as his daughter's husband, and was looking forward to many many more good times with him. I'll just have to wait until we meet again. I also want say I truly enjoy Nancy, Tammy, Lee, Jacob and Lindsey and look forward to camping and visiting Seattle soon. I love you guys, and I'm hurting with you. Doug"

Rosanna Wiest wrote on Mar 18, 2009:

"Wendy & Family Our deepest sympathies to you and your family in this time of sadness. Our Prayers are with you. With love and respect to you all. God Bless you. With all our love Rosanna, Jason & Julie Wiest "

Ernest Johnson wrote on Mar 18, 2009:

"You are missed by many."

Kathy Klein wrote on Mar 18, 2009:

"Nancy I'm sorry for everything you're going thru right now. Perhaps you, Linda, and I could get together down the road. Take Care, Kathy "

Denny Slaght wrote on Mar 18, 2009:

"I met Johnny at Seattle Western Swing Society get togethers twice and was very impressed with his sense of humor and his vocal talent. My prayers go out to the family. We have all lost a fine human being. Rest in peace Johnny. "

Carolyn C. Brooks wrote on Mar 18, 2009:

""

Nancy Jo Vescio wrote on Mar 18, 2009:

"Nancy.. I am Johnny's niece, Wendy & Bob's cousin.. My thoughts and prayers goes for all of you.. "

Rosanna Wiest wrote on Mar 18, 2009:

"Our deepest sympathies to you and your family. My prayers to you and your family in this trying times. With all our love and respect Rosanna, Jason & Julie "

Al Johnson wrote on Mar 18, 2009:

"I missed Johnny quite a bit during last year, he was usually updating his web site and he wasn't. We exchanged some nice email. Stay on the trail Johnny. Blessings to your family. Al"

Linda & Deanna Wakely wrote on Mar 18, 2009:

"Deanna and I send our love to Nancy, Wendy, Tammy, Bobby and all Johnny's friends. He was our little brother and we were very proud of what he had achieved... and the man he had become. We will miss his crazy laugh and weird sense of humor but, Thank God, we all have so many happy memories to keep us warm. We'll see ya' up there one day, Johnny. "

Ross Pittman wrote on Mar 18, 2009:

"Thoughts and prayers are with the Wakely family in this time of sorrow and loss of their dear loved one. I never knew Johnny or heard him sing, but considered him a friend from e-mail correspondence. I am sure he had a wonderful voice as did his father. May God's blessings be with each of you as I know Johnny is enjoying the most beautiful sunset he has ever seen. "

Dick Sandy Sanderson wrote on Mar 18, 2009:

"I'd just like to say that - I've known JOHNNY since shortly after his arrival in Seattle. But really,I met him and his Dad and Sister Lindalee, When they performed at the Lake City Elks a long time ago!. At that time I purchased and Album with all three pictured "The Jimmy Wakely Family Show". That night, Jimmy signed the album,and in August of 2000 I asked Johnny if he'd sign it too - which he did "to Sandy and Jean". Ihope I can still get that album in CD form. I only wish I had heard, or read, about the funeral before Saturday night so I could have attended the funeral to pay my regrets! Sandy and my Band,The The Rhythm Riders "

JAKIE wrote on Mar 18, 2009:

"Johnny I enjoyed the fun times as kids.God bless you for the joy. JAKIE"

JAKIE wrote on Mar 18, 2009:

""

John Heck wrote on Mar 18, 2009:

"My thought are with you...."

shawn mertens wrote on Mar 18, 2009:

"Nancy, I could not love you more if you were my own mother. I cannot possibly put into words how sorry I am for your loss. Tammy, Wendy and family, watching you guys and listening to your stories about your lives with Johnny says so much to me about the man that Johnny was. The love that you guys all have for him is incredible and I am thankful that I get to be a part of that. I am here for you and your family now , next year, always. Love, Shawn "

Linda , John & Robby Bissett wrote on Mar 18, 2009:

"Nancy, our thoughts & prayers are with you at this time. I know how much you will miss Johnny as we ALL will. I WILL NEVER forget the day 13 years ago that Johnny sang "The Hawaiian Wedding Song" as my father walked me down the aisle. I had tears in my eyes then & I do tonight too. Haircuts will just NEVER be the same. I love you Nancy & I'll miss you Johhny. Love Linda B"

Myrtle Moller wrote on Mar 18, 2009:

"It was always nice to see your smiling faces as you came into church on Sunday. We never had a chance to get acquainted, as we go to early service. I'm sorry about that."

Jim and Lynn Grobschmit wrote on Mar 18, 2009:

"To the man who touched our heart with his music."

Jan Brady wrote on Mar 18, 2009:

" Dearest Nancy, My prayers go out to you for your loss. He was a great man, & I loved to dance to his band. I have 4 of his tapes, did he make any more? I would love to get any of them that I don't have,I will always remember the good time we had with him. As ever,Jan Brady 206 824 1624 "

Maureen Strasser wrote on Mar 18, 2009:

"Dear Nancy, You and I were roomates at Northwest Hospital for our surgeries in March of 1990. I have often thought of you and Johnny and wondered how you were doing. I was saddened to read of his passing in the wonderful article in the Times. He was a very special man and I know you loved him dearly, as he did you. In that short stay in the hospital he bought me flowers because you had so many and he did not want me to feel left out and I bought a couple of his tapes because his father was my mother's favorite singer. I play the tapes and they are wonderful. I also gave a set to my mom and she enjoyed them very much. My thoughts and prayers are with you during this hard time. May you find peace in knowing that you had a very special man for a time, although not long enough! Warm regards, Maureen"

Maureen Strasser wrote on Mar 18, 2009:

"Dear Nancy, You and I were roomates at Northwest Hospital for our surgeries in March of 1990. I have often thought of you and Johnny and wondered how you were doing. I was saddened to read of his passing in the wonderful article in the Times. He was a very special man and I know you loved him dearly, as he did you. In that short stay in the hospital he bought me flowers because you had so many and he did not want me to feel left out and I bought a couple of his tapes because his father was my mother's favorite singer. I play the tapes and they are wonderful. I also gave a set to my mom and she enjoyed them very much. My thoughts and prayers are with you during this hard time. May you find peace in knowing that you had a very special man for a time, although not long enough! Warm regards, Maureen"

Ada A. Glover wrote on Mar 18, 2009:

"It's hard to let go of love ones who are the salt of the earth. God bless your family, and may he help you through this trying time."

Dick and Dee Heil wrote on Mar 18, 2009:

"Not only was Johnny one of the best singers of the late 1900's, but he was an excellent whistler, as well as a fine musician. We loved him and will miss him. Dick and Dee Heil"

Jon, Kelli and Mason Milkey wrote on Mar 18, 2009:

"Our thoughts and prayers are with Johnny and his family. Always a smile and a good word to keep everyone happy and smiling..."

TONY wrote on Mar 18, 2009:

"Yo Johnny: As usual, you beat me to it. Touring with you and your dad from 1963 through 1968 was a time I'll never forget. Don't pull another "Durango." I love you kiddo. Toot"

Jamie Mendoza Nudie wrote on Mar 18, 2009:

"I'm so sorry to hear of your loss, I spoke with Johnny when I was setting up my website on my Grandfather Nudie, We spoke of all the good times his daddy and my poppie shared. Bobbie grandma sends her love to all of the family. Now they can all be up in hillbilly heaven together and rest and play some tunes together. My love goes out to you all."

John and Donna Shape wrote on Mar 18, 2009:

"We had the pleasure of meeting Johnny and Nancy while camping at Pacific Beach acouple of years ago. We are both big fans of his fathers and had fun listening to Johnny's stories of his father and his childhood stories. Johnny took a picture of some of our family sitting on the beach and sent it to us via email. We still have that picture. We will miss his twinkle and sense of humor. Our best wishes to Nancy and all of his family. Thanks to you Wendy for letting us know of his passing. "

don wayne patterson wrote on Mar 18, 2009:

"LIFE IS SO SHORT BUT WITH LOTS OF MEANING IF WE TAKE TIME TO SMELL THE ROSES...I BELIEVE THE WAKELY FAMILY HAS SEEN A LOT MORE THAN MOST PEOPLE GET TO SEE AND SHARE WITH THEIR LOVE ONES.AS A INTERNET AND PHONE FRIEND I'M SORRY I DIDN'T GET THE CHANCE TO MEET JOHNNY.IF HE'S ANYTHING LIKE HIS SISTERS I KNOW I WOULD HAVE ENJOYED HIS VIEWS AND STORIES.GOD BLESS THE WAKELY FAMILY FROM A CANADIAN BUDDY.DON WAYNE"

Mel & Shirley LaBoyne wrote on Mar 18, 2009:

"Our condolences to the family on their loss. We knew John as a talented musician and vocalist through the SWSMS."

Freddie Raper wrote on Mar 18, 2009:

"Wendy, My condolences and Sympathy goes out to you and all your family in the loss of your dad, Johnny Wakely. I had the pleasure of e-mailing your dad a few months back and he e-mailed me back with alot of info on his dad, Jimmy Wakely. I grew up watching your grand dad on the silver screen. I do send all my love for you and your family. I will miss your dad as i just got to meet him thru e-mail. Hope to hear from you soon, Freddie Raper"

Bud and Geri Isaacs wrote on Mar 18, 2009:

"I enjoyed all the times that I worked with Johnny and his Dad Jimmy. We had a lot of fun together. Johnny was a great talent in his own right. He will be missed by all who knew him. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family. God Bless, Bud and Geri Isaacs"

Janet McBride wrote on Mar 18, 2009:

"My sympathy to all of the friends and relations of Johnny. We became friends through country/western music via email. He will be missed. "

Dave 'Pappy' Hamel and family wrote on Mar 18, 2009:

"Johnny may you rest in peace... have a great time pickin' and grinnin' with your Dad and fellow musician friends... you will NOT be forgotten. I will THANK YOU for your support and friendship Bud... you're in our hearts forever... Pappy - family - and all the guys. "X""

Louis Solis wrote on Mar 18, 2009:

"We got to meet John through e-mail. Had met Pete Martinez who played with dad Jimmy and was in 5 movies with him. John helped us locate some of the movies and shared memories of Jimmy with us. Was a friendly and gracious man. Heaven is richer today. "

Bobby Copeland wrote on Mar 18, 2009:

"To Johnny's loved ones: Cry, but only for a little while for this loved one who's passed away. Rather rejoice that's he's with the Master - as we prepare ourselves for that day. Johnny's now enjoying a land with no sorrow or despair, and he's waiting patiently and prayerfully - for his loved ones to join he there. "

Jenninematt wrote on Mar 18, 2009:

"My thoughts and prayers are with you Nancy and your family. I will never forget his beautiful gift of song to us all at the office Christmas parties. They so made Dr. Cotham's holidays so special. He was always willing to lend a hand, anytime I was having computer difficulties, no matter what time of day or night Ann Claire would say "Call Johnny" ,and he would spend the time to get me back on track. I also thank him for all the times he shared Nancy's time with Dr. Cotham. He was very special and he will be missed. May they both rest peacefully in god's love. "

Jacob & Lindsey wrote on Mar 18, 2009:

"Dear Papa: Thank you for the time we were able to spend with you and for always making us crack up laughing when you acted like you were a mama chicken laying an egg. We will miss you very much but we know that you will be our guardian angel and watch us grow from heaven. Jacob also knows that you will be an "angel in the outfield" helping those Mariners win the World Series. Save us a See's sucker for when we see you again. We love you!!! "

Carol Inez Wakely Carawan wrote on Mar 18, 2009:

"Johnny was our baby brother. I called him Johnnyhoney until he was a teenager. We grew up together, outside. We loved to be ourside. We were also the best swimmers. We used to race from the deep end of the pool to the shallow end. He alwsya beat me, so I decided to cheat. We said go and he jumped in to swim the length. I ran around the deck and jumped in on the steps. I won, but I broke my big toe. It hurt terribly, but we couldn't help laughing. Mom and Dad told me that when I got married and left home that Johnny's heart was broken. We were very close until we had families and priorities of our own, and then we sort of grew apart. But these last 20 years, we found our sibling bond again. I have enjoyed him so much. He was a good man, a good father and husband, and a good listener. He was also a Christian long before last April. Johnny used to call me Ms. Perfect because I thought I knew everything. Now he is Perfect, for real. The only consolation in this is that he doesn't hurt anymore. We hurt. My world changed that Saturday, just like it did when Dad and then Mom died. A piece of you dies with them and you wonder if you will ever feel normal again. But I think that's when God steps in. Your world is still changed, but it begins to feel normal. In time, you can look back and laugh and it doesn't hurt. My heart goes out to Nancy, Wendy and Bobby, I love you all. I loved Johnny, still do. He will be so missed by so many. "

Gerald Walton wrote on Mar 18, 2009:

"we shared storys of his dad via email i had been a big fan of his dad saw many him times in person when he lived in oklahoma"

Dick and Carol Oakes wrote on Mar 18, 2009:

"Carol and I were saddened to hear of Johnny's passing. You could count on Johnny to send along a bit of humor to lighten your day. We met Johnny in Simi Valley, California, home of Ray "Crash" Corrigan's movie ranch, "Corriganville," when he spoke of Jimmy Wakley at a meeting of the Trail Riders of the West, a B-Westerns film viewing club. We'll miss Johnny's quick wit and that twinkle he always had in his eye. May he rest in peace. "Colorado" and "Red""

Merle Claflin wrote on Mar 18, 2009:

"Thank you Johnny for sharing your enthusiam, wit and personality with all of us. God has already blessed us many times by your presence. Now you are receiving the blessing you have earned. See you later - Merle . "

Tammy wrote on Mar 18, 2009:

"There is so much I feel I never go to thank you for....Thank you for always treating me as if I were your own. Thank you for always being honest even when I didn't want to hear it. Thank you for walking me down the aisle at my wedding. Thank you for coming over every day after I had Jacob to let me get some sleep. Thank you for watching Jacob while I was at the hospital having Lindsey. Thank you for always listening. Thank you for teaching me medical transcription. Thank you for putting me in my place when I really needed it. Thank you for being a great Papa. Thank you for teaching me how to cuss with the best of em' ha ha...I probably taught you a thing or two. Thank you for marrying my mom and making her happy for 15 years! Most of all, thanks for all the laughs and great times! I hope you knew how much I really loved you."

Linda Forseth wrote on Mar 18, 2009:

"Love and a peaceful heart to Nancy. May God hold you in his hand during this difficult time. John always had a joke to tell!! Linda "

BETTY DODRILL wrote on Mar 18, 2009:

"AS A YOUNG GIRL GROWING UP IN MOUNTAINS OF VA, I WORKED AND SAVED TO GO SEE JIMMY WAKELY & HIS HOLLYWOOD SADDLE PALS IN BRISTOL, TENN. I WAS OVERWHELMED TO MEET JOHNNY IN 1986 WHEN HE SANG AT MY HOME FOR HONEY DODRILL'S SON'S FUNERAL. GOD BE WITH YOU ALL. I SHARE IN YOUR LOSS & WILL BE THINKING OF "CRYING IN THE CHAPEL""

Wade and Paula wrote on Mar 18, 2009:

"Nancy, Johnny will be greatly missed. Our fondest memories of Johnny is his sense of humor, his stories of his childhood and his great affection and love for his mom and dad. We are here for you. God Bless. Love, Wade and Paula. "

Linda Forseth wrote on Mar 18, 2009:

"Love and a peaceful heart to Nancy. May God hold you in his hand during this difficult time. John always had a joke to tell!! Linda "

CHERYL HOGREFE wrote on Mar 18, 2009:

"To my dear friend, Nancy, who I have known for 26 years, I know you have lost your best friend. Know that you were strong for John and that he loved you very much. I will always be here for you and I love you. John, I am glad for you that your pain is over; that you are with God and making music with your father once again. I will miss you and even your long, long, stories. Until we meet again - I love you."

Evergreen Washelli wrote on Mar 18, 2009:

"Goodbye my love and my best friend.Thankyou for giving me such a wonderful life. I will miss you terribly, but am so happy for you that you are at peace and have no pain.You are the most interesting man I ever knew. I love you. Your loving wife, Nancy"

Chele Franz wrote on Mar 18, 2009:

"I miss you my friend so much. you will never know how much you meant to me. I hope you are singing and dancing up there. I know that you are where you are supposed to be Johnny. I am so glad thatyou are happy and pain free once again. I love you, until we meet again. Love, Chele"

Ron McKnight wrote on Mar 18, 2009:

"Dear Nancy and family: My deepest sympathy to you and the family during this time of sorrow. Although Johnny and I never met I considered him a close friend. I always enjoyed his website, his e-mails, icq chats and our phone conversations. His Dad was one of my silver screen heroes. There is sweeter music in Heaven now. My thoughts and prayers are with you and the family. Rest well Johnny, I'll miss ya. Sincerely: Ron McKnight."

Roger $ Kathi Goettling wrote on Mar 18, 2009:

"Great memories of John on the CB radio and the Interlopers in the 70's. "

Kay Rader wrote on Mar 18, 2009:

"Johnny was loved and will be missed by all. My condolences and sympathy go out to Nancy and family. Kay"

David F Cotham wrote on Mar 18, 2009:

"My thoughts and prayers are with you in these times of loss. "

Coral Levang wrote on Mar 18, 2009:

"Our families go back to the time before I was born 1955 when my dad and Johnny's dad, Jimmy, worked together. I had the honor of meeting Johnny back in the early 80's. We shared many conversations about the pains and joys of life; he encouraged me over these years to never to give up on hope and to remain tenacious in my goals. For those long talks, and for the many more things he has brought to me and my family, I shall never forget Johnny. "

Sandy Hubert & Pat Leahy wrote on Mar 18, 2009:

"Nancy, our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this time."

Jerry Belke wrote on Mar 18, 2009:

"My Condolences To Johnny's family. I only know him from his website but I found him to a warm & easy person to coverse with. His father was my silverscreen hero. God Bless All Of You"

Art & Cheryl S. wrote on Mar 18, 2009:

"Nancy and family, We are so very sorry for your loss. We were fans of Johnny's and spent many a Saturday night listening to his wonderful music at the Ballard Eagles. I remember his kindness toward my Uncle the "scooter man". Whenever Johnny saw him at the club he would sing him his favorite song. He would just beam and Johnny always took time to speak to him. We will always have fond memories of Johnny and his band. They seemed to be having as much fun as we were!"

Wendy Johnson Wakely wrote on Mar 18, 2009:

"My Dad was truly the best! I will always have many good memories to share with my children and my grandchildren. Thank God for Nancy, she was a wonderful caregiver and wife, and I owe her so much for making him happy these last 15 years. Dad, rest with Jesus until we meet again. I love you."

Marc Agricola wrote on Mar 18, 2009:

"Remembering you and you're family with sincere sympathy in you're time of loss."

Jim and Colleen Bellecourt wrote on Mar 18, 2009:

"Nancy, We are so sorry about your loss. Our prayers are with you. God Bless! Colleen & Jim "

Patty Beard wrote on Mar 18, 2009:

"Johnny, you will be so missed by so many people. We hardly knew each other but what I did know is that when you met someone, you left such a positive impression. Your warmth, your kindness, your sincerity towards life will be what I will remember always about you. I met Johnny when he was patient in physical therapy years ago and never forgot him. We would occasionally run into one another and the last time was in the spring of 2001. I will never forget you Johnny Wakely. "

walt jennings wrote on Mar 18, 2009:

"nancy my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family"

Gail Agricola wrote on Mar 18, 2009:

"Johnny, Thank you for the time we had together and giving me two wonderful children. My childhood sweetheart, rest peacefully in the arms of our Savior. Until I see you again, play nice in Heaven. When I get there, sing me that song of ours again. I'll love you always, Gail"

Mike Miller wrote on Mar 18, 2009:

"All my best to your loving family. May peace and comfort follow you in all the days ahead. Mike Miller"

Gary & Ellen Armitstead wrote on Mar 18, 2009:

"What a great brother-in-law."

Wendy Johnson wrote on Mar 18, 2009:

"Dad, now Mom is with you. I pray you are together again. I miss you both. I never knew how lonely it would be to lose you both. I love you Mom and Dad. Bring your Grandson into this world safely."

Wendy Stikkelman wrote on Mar 18, 2009:

"Dad, Now you have James, your grandson and my son with you. Please hold him tight and let him know that Mommy loves him and misses him. I hope the accident brought him no fear or pain. He was 17 and had a big future, so Dad, please take care of him."

Wendy Stikkelman wrote on Mar 18, 2009:

"Happy Birthday yesterday Dad. I would have written yesterday, but I honestly didn't think this page was still up. I hope you, Mom and my sweet boy James celebrated your 64th in style. I miss you dearly dad.....I really wish you were here. Love, Wendy"