WASESCHA, JOHN VALENTINE – December 9, 1903 – February 26 – 2003

Family was from Graubunnden/Grisons Canton Village of Saugragnin, Switzerland. John Valentine Wasescha (Johann) was born and also received his school in Lucerne. He family relocated later to the Ennanda Alp Region near Zurich.

Amid the aftermath of the World War I, the economic depression and turmoil, John set out to improve his family’s living conditions. He immigrated at age 16 and he processed through Ellis Island, and promptly traveled to Logan, Utah. There he was received by a Swiss family. He was employed at their ranch in the Malad/Rexburg area. He again sought renewed opportunity at the “Dream Mine” near Salem, Utah. He married Pearl Sabin (Stone-Sabin Pioneer family) in 1924 in the LDS Temple. John became a High Priest. He was periodically involved as a scoutmaster (Eagle Scout); and managed Welfare Projects for the Pioneer Stake during his spare time: such as 25 acres beet farming (proceeds helped finance the ward chapel organ), and he participated in the 24 hour continuous cement pour of the welfare granary. Humbly, he avoided recognition for charitable works.

His primary occupations and business ventures were Jordan Exchange Grocery and Empire Food Market and private grocer retailer. He retired from the Christensen Diamond Company. John cherished his member in the Swiss Chorus with whom he sang and yodeled for over 35 years. He promoted folk music through performances in school, church socials and among senior/nursing centers and grand concerts. He helped support various missionaries and other charities: impoverished families and children welfare agencies.

Along with mother/spouse Pearl Sabin W. (Pioneer Ellsworth Handcart Co.), they raised a fmily of one daughter, Nancy W. Jones and four sons, Ronald John, Lamar Sabin, Blaine Eugene and Terry Leea. There are 20 grandchildren and 20 great-grandchildren. Surviving family also include Claire Bacher (Salt Lake City), Frank Bacher (Mill Valley, CA.), Otto Bacher family, Madison, WI.

Funeral services will be held Friday, March 7, 2003 at the Garden Heights Chapel, 2220 E. Fisher Lane at 11:00 a.m. Friends and family may call from 9:45 – 10:45 a.m. prior to the service, or Thursday, March 6, 2003 from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. at Wasatch Lawn, 3401 Highland Dr.