Final Salute

William “John” Mespelt passed away Sept 3rd at the Veterans home in Lebanon. His family would like to thank Evergreen Hospice and the “Angels” in Alpha 1 for all the care and compassion they showed us through this difficult time.

John was born and raised in Albany. His parents were William Fred Mespelt and Doris Juanita Hoffman. He was raised by his maternal grandparents, Harry and Lela Nelson on a farm in N Albany. He graduated in 1965 from West Albany High. In 1966, during the Vietnam War, he enlisted in the Navy as a Seabee, completing two tours. He married Judy Krpalek and had two daughters, Linda and Christie.

He started his beekeeping career in Nampa Id working for a large commercial operation. In 1980 he moved his family back to Albany and bought Fairview Apiaries from Oliver Petty. He also served as the 1993 President of the Ore State Beekeepers Assoc.

In June of 1999 he married Sue Falk. Together they enjoyed traveling and spending time on their small farm. John loved his family, his bees and his big red pickup. He had a passion for steam engine trains and enjoyed riding them on a trip to Colorado. John was a very kind, gentle soul who endeared himself to many people. He will be fondly remembered and terribly missed.

Surviving are his wife, Sue, daughters Linda Sheffield (Bob), Christie Ferguson (Scott) and Becky Burger. Grandchildren include John Porter, Megan Axe, Brody Ferguson, Kenzie Cope and two great-grandchildren. He would have also liked to mention his longtime friends, Dirk Olsen of Albany and Roger and Sheri Warner of Terrebonne.

Services will be Tuesday, October 6th at 2 PM at Willamette National Cemetery in Portland for family and friends. In lieu of flowers please donate in his name to any Veterans organization of your choice.