John Guiseppe Willhard was born on October 7th, 1956, in the small town of Laramie, Wyoming. JJ (as he was known to his friends and family) passed away on April 8th, 2022 in Salt Lake City, Utah, from an unexpected heart attack at the age of 65. Though a failing heart took him away from this world, the love he gave left a beacon of light for everyone lucky enough to know him.
JJ was a true cowboy and an avid fisherman and was happiest when he was outdoors, in nature. He and his wife Lesa owned property in East Canyon and spent weekends up there, camping and fishing.
He also had an unparalleled work ethic, serving as head of security for over 30 years at the Expo Mart in downtown Salt Lake City.
JJ was someone who appreciated life and exemplified kindness. His cheerful attitude and humor will be missed.
JJ was a loving husband, survived by his beloved wife, Lesa. They were married for thirty years. He was a proud Papa to two daughters and three sons: Jenny (husband Randy), Jaime, Johnny (wife Ginger), Jeff, and Chris (wife Ashley).
He leaves behind four precious grandchildren: Adam, Daisy, Genevieve, and Jude. He also leaves three cherished siblings: Loretta, Raymond, and Theresa.
A short viewing and graveside ceremony will be held Friday, April 15, 2022, at the Larkin Mortuary and Salt Lake City Cemetery.
My condolences to Lesa and family. He will be missed by all who knew him. Blessings of all of the "Love" that you and Jj had for one another forever and always!!! ❤️❤️❤️
Dad,
You were the one for our mother and was glad to know you as a great father. You taught me how to drive and make sure that I knew the handbook inside and out before getting the written and driving test done. I remember when you came home from work and we both worked together on your reports. I got to know alot about your job and always appreciated what you did. I am glad you were the one to walk me down the aisle for my wedding, I couldn't ask for anyone better than you. One thing I will miss is our football game gatherings. Will it be Denver or Green Bay in the Superbowl. Last but not least, our breakfast burritos at Ogie's. What a treat. I will love and forever miss you.
Lesa & Family
Sorry for your loss. Sending hugs and prayers for all of you.
JJ was a kind hearted father with the patience of a Saint who truly cared about other in his life. He will be missed and always remembered!
JJ was a kind hearted father with the patience of a Saint who truly cared about other in his life. He will be missed and always remembered!
Lesa and Family
So sorry for your loss my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family,
Lesa and Family
So sorry for your loss my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family,
Lesa and Family
So sorry for your loss my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family,
So sorry to hear that jj passed. I always enjoyed the interaction with him while I was in the expomart office for the 30 years prior to closing down. We both regaled about out small town Wyoming upbringing and the things we were doing now with our family. RIP cowboy!
Sorry , to heard about JJ passing. I send my, Love to and family.
Sorry to hear this...my condolences to the family - he was a great guy and loved by many.
What are we going to do without your daily phone calls with you saying ‘what are you doing’ instead of the normal hello. We were lucky to have you both as neighbors and as good friends. We have so enjoyed JJ’s and Lesa’s company on so many road and camping trips over the past fifteen years. I will miss the badgering between Todd and JJ on who caught the most and biggest fish and the fish stories. We will even miss our breakfasts at Ogies (I wasn’t the biggest fan of Ogies, but JJ loved it, so I went). Hope you are enjoying the lakes and telling your fish stories to those you have missed. We’ll see you later. Love Holly & Todd
Lesa, I am so sorry that you lost the love of your life so soon. I remember working the parking at expo! It was a fun job. I love you Lesa. Please let me know if i can do anything at all for you.
I am so sorry to hear about JJ. My prayers are with you and your family!
JJ Willhard, you little dickens. You sneaked out of here before I could get you to the Temple. I remember your smile whenever I mentioned it….. too nice to tell me to knock it off. When Bick heard of your passing he said, “JJ was a good man. Nice to have known you, JJ.” So true. Everyone would agree who knew you, nice to have known you and we’ll know you again in the next life. Be watching for us. Mitzi Robbins