John Henry Waalkens, 80, passed away at his home in Glenville, Minnesota, on July 29, 2016.

John “Johnny” was born to parents, Melvin and Mary (Loverink) Waalkens on March 9, 1936, in rural Freeborn County. He grew up in and around the Rose Creek and Hollandale areas. He was a member of the Conservative Congregational Church in Hollandale. On March 27, 1955, John married Judy King at First Lutheran Church in Albert Lea.

For 35 years, John worked at Wilson’s in Albert Lea as a truck spotter until retirement. John was involved as a member of Pheasants Forever and the National Rifle Association. His hobbies included deer hunting, fishing, gardening, woodworking, traveling and riding his motorcycle. John also enjoyed having coffee and visiting with his friends and family.

Survivors include wife, Judy Waalkens of Glenville; son, Randy Waalkens of Albert Lea; daughters: Cheryl (Pat) Neilon of Twin Lakes, Cindy (Scott) Golbuff of Albert Lea, Sandy Waalkens of Glenville; six grandchildren: JP (Ginger) Neilon, Megan (Tony) Madson, Nick (fiancée Emily) Golbuff, Alex Golbuff, Jenni Golbuff and Hayley Waalkens; seven great-grandchildren; sisters: Babe (Larry) Enderson of Albert Lea, Bev (Lynn) Huston of Austin, Minnesota; brother-in-law, Darrell McCain of Colorado; as well as many nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.

John was preceded in death by his parents; mother-in-law, Helen Brandt; father-in-law, Grover King; sisters: Marge Buckmaster, Reka Neitzel; sisters-in-law: Pat McCain, Ethelyn McBain and Phyllis Schrader.

A Celebration of Life service will be held 11 a.m. on Friday, Aug. 5, 2016, at the Hollandale Reformed Church with the Rev. Neil Ooms officiating. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service at church. Interment will be in Hillcrest Cemetery at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, the family prefers memorials to be sent to cancer research funds or to donor’s choice.