On February 11, 2022, the most humorous, goofy, crazy, selfless, and caring individual passed away leaving behind his wife Susan “Sue” Wadlow of 40 years, his daughter Hailey Gibbons who he always called his “Angel”, son-in-law John Gibbons, sister Roseanne Gentry (Kim), and many nieces and nephews.
John Anthony Wadlow aka “Wady” was born September 25, 1961, in Vernal, Utah to Helen Pauline Olah and James T. Wadlow. He married the love of his life on May 2, 1981. They later had their one and only child.
John “Wady” started his career in 1982 as a proud member of the Utah Pipe Trades Local 57 (now Local 140) where he made a living as a union pipefitter and welder. He was a devoted member and loved all his union brothers and sisters. His job often took him across the country where he contributed his skills to help build many amazing projects including, power plants, refineries, and many other piping projects. He served in various positions with the union throughout his career. He enjoyed teaching his apprentices and everyone else the skills he had learned throughout his career. John especially enjoyed making people laugh and playing jokes on them. Later in his career he became the business manager of Local 140 where he worked tirelessly trying to help his brothers and sisters. He retired in 2017. After many years of the career that he loved, he went through many physical obstacles that he could no longer endure.
No matter where his career took him or what he was doing his family always came first. He loved his family and friends and always cared more about them than himself. His most favorite times were with his family and friends (especially his best friend Chone), camping, hunting, fishing, and starring at the stars beside a roaring fire. His favorite spot was mile marker 18 in the Uinta’s. John loved people; he was our “Social Butterfly”. Always the prankster and creating mischief wherever he went. Another favorite hobby was reading, especially his comic books. He was selfless and never wanted anything in return. He believed in the greater good of everything and never backed down at the opportunity to try and help give others a better life. With his loving, headstrong and caring personality he focused on helping those in need by always donating his time, food, his home, and all that he could provide.
He was truly an honest, hardworking, caring soul. He will be deeply missed and loved by many.
Per his wishes there will be no funeral services. A celebration of life will be held later in the summer at his favorite family camping spot in the Uinta’s.
If you would like to share a story, pictures, or favorite memory of Wady, and to receive information regarding the celebration of life, please contact his daughter Hailey at wadymemorial@yahoo.com.