May 17, 1933 - April 23, 2021
John Ralston Staheli – devoted family patriarch, husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, friend and humble servant of the Lord - peacefully passed away at his home on April 23, 2021 at the age of 87 of causes incident to age.
He often referred to himself as “a simple man,” but he lived an amazing life, found fulfillment in the relationships he had with others, and was proud of his service as a Korean War Era veteran.
All who knew him were inspired by his smile, enthusiasm, optimistic attitude, humility and openness in sharing truth. He leaves a legacy of selfless service and an abiding love for everyone he met. He was good natured, warm, caring, compassionate, energetic and a hard worker. One could not be around John without being uplifted. He believed that every person was a unique piece of the puzzle and an important part of the whole. Anybody that visited his home could be expected to sign a piece of his very own jigsaw puzzle that he kept to show how the puzzle would not be complete without everybody, no matter who you are.
Have you ever seen an old cowboy? John asked this question many times in good humor referencing himself. John was a lover of horses, and was often found riding, breaking, training and shoeing them. Throughout his life he owned 187! He was often seen in his boots and cowboy hat, and will be remembered playing “Turkey in the Straw'' on his harmonica and yodeling as well as Gene Autry. We will miss hearing his music and feeling the joy that he carried with him everywhere.
He will also be remembered as a great missionary – a man who went the extra mile to bring others unto Christ and whose faith never wavered. He served in many callings in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints throughout his life and was noted to have faithfully magnified each. He was an inspirational example of a disciple of our Savior and all that can be accomplished by a humble and faithful individual who places his complete trust in the Lord.
John was born on May 17, 1933 in Enterprise, Utah to Beulah and Clarence Staheli – the 7th child in a family of 11 children. He is survived by his loving wife, Kaye, his sisters Mary, Colleen, Barbara, and Anna, his children Bobbi, Mike, Kevin, Jimmy, Melonie, Mitzi, Maegan, Brad, Kathy, and Nonya Ree, his former spouse Janice Bowers, and his many grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his loving wife Patty Lou Staheli and his siblings Stan, Bert, Ken, Jim, Evelyn, and Ferol.
Graveside services will be held Saturday, May 1 at 1 p.m. at the Enterprise, Utah Cemetery. Burial Arrangements are under the direction of Olpin Stevens funeral Home.
John is headed to the last roundup. The family wishes to express their love and gratitude for all of those who will be in attendance and those who would be if they could.
