John L. Whittier

John’s service will be available to view on this page

John L. Whittier, 91, Fargo, ND, went to his eternal home on May 22, 2024.

John L. was born to Leslie and Jeanette (Molitor) Whittier at home on March 11, 1933.
He graduated from Farmington High School where he was a 3-sport athlete. He fell in love with Marj Alexander, and they were married on September 25, 1953, in Decorah, Iowa. From 1953 – 1955 John served in the US Army during the Korean Conflict.

John and Marj lived near Castle Rock, MN where John worked for the elevator until they ventured to Arthur, ND, with their children, Steve, Susan, Lisa, and Mark. He worked as an office manager for Arthur Farmer’s Elevator. John was an active member of Arthur United Methodist Church, and later First United Methodist Church in Fargo, where he served on various boards and committees. In 1980, they moved to Fargo, ND, where John worked as an insurance agent for Nodak Mutual and retired in December of 2020. Marj passed away in 2005. They were blessed with over 51 years of marriage.

Their Leaf Lake cabin was always a fun family hang out; so many memories were made there. John loved to play all kinds of games…especially with his grandchildren. He was very proud of all his grandkids. He always had a supply of candy to share. John L. never met a stranger; he was friendly and approachable, always upbeat, optimistic, and enjoyed life. He became a card shark during his later years at One Oak Place. As far as we know, he still holds the record for the highest pinochle score at One Oak.

John is survived by his loving family, Susan Iwen (Tom), Lisa Nelson (Mike), Mark Whittier (Kari Sandness, his favorite daughter-in-law); brother, Father Bill Whittier; sister, Charlotte Blesener; grandchildren, Brian Whittier (Jen), David Whittier (Michelle), Brenda Connelly (Leon), Debbie Whittier, Shanna Schnabel (Travis), Chad Iwen (Quinn), Julianne Iwen (Scott), Jenny Webster, Josh Nelson, Justin Nelson, Alex Whittier (Falon), and Ben Whittier (Bethany); 23 great-grandchildren; and 3 great-great-grandchildren.

John was preceded in death by his wife, Marj; brother, Larry; and son, Steve, and great grandson, Eddie Alexander.

In lieu of flowers, the family prefers memorials to Methodist churches, Roger Maris Cancer Center, or a charity of your choice.