Johnny Ray Whetstine, 68, of rural Highland, died Tuesday evening, October 11, 2016, at University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS.

He was born on a farm north of Troy, February 23, 1948, one of four children born to Hugh Dale “Jack” and Jo Ann McConnaughey Whetstine and was a lifelong Doniphan County resident.  He grew up near Highland where he attended county schools of Hickory Grove and Buffalo Hollow until the fourth grade, soon after his youngest brother Jason was born his family packed up and moved to a farm near Highland, as a Blue Streak John enjoyed being around more kids, participating in FFA and he loved  playing football. He graduated from Highland High School in 1966.  John’s desire was to farm which he did right out of high school, with his parents and brother. In later years, he was blessed to continue life ambition with his wife Virginia, son and nephews.

He was a life time member of Community of Christ Church at Fanning Ks, where he was an ordained Deacon.  John also was a member of the Fox Hunters Association. John loved to visit with hunters at his son’s family’s hunting camp – Rawhide Camp.

John married the love of his life Virginia R. Cole, June 7, 1969, on the farm northeast of Highland.  They spent all of their married life near Highland where they were fortunate to farm together and raise their family.  Virginia survives of the home.

Also surviving are a son Johnny Dale Whetstine (Dana) of rural Highland; two daughters:  Melanie Hollabaugh (Bruce), and JoEllen Banks; both of Highland; a sister Carolyn Saunders of rural Troy; a brother Jason of Lawrence Ks. Sister in law Kathy A.Whetstine-Twombly of Highland; and 13 grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.

John was preceded in death by his parents; and a brother Larry.

A Celebration of Life Service is planned for 10 a.m. Saturday, October 15, at the Community of Christ Church at Fanning, with Evangelist Kathy A. Twombly, and High Priest Mark Twombly officiating.  Cremation will follow service.

Friends may call at Chapel Oaks Funeral Home in Highland after 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Friday.  The family will meet with friends at the Community of Christ church from 6 until 8 that evening.

Memorial contributions are suggested to the Community of Christ Fanning Congregation or Highland EMT Assn., which may be sent in care of the funeral home, 124 S 7th St., Highland 66035.  A special message or remembrance may be sent to the family at www.chapeloaksfuneralhome.com