JOHN “BUTCH” WEITZEL III

John was an extremely intelligent man with a quick wit and a love for books. He was a selfless caregiver, believing in and living the Social Work Code of Ethics. He was a man who fervently marched to his own drum. Sometimes he was a curmudgeon, but often with a soft heart. He was a card-carrying Humanist (who had also been a Methodist and a Buddhist.) His various personal business cards over the years described himself humorously as either a sin-eater, bail bondsman, or grave digger.

John (“Butch” to his family and friends) enjoyed being a consummate learner and embraced trying new things. Throughout his life he developed countless hobbies that included bodybuilding, beer making, race walking, genealogy, knife collecting, worm farming, and growing numerous plants and flowers that took up most of their back deck. He also took great pleasure in being one of Walmart’s finest customers.

He was a loyal friend to many. He loved his dogs, sitting outside enjoying the view from his mountain top home, and his politics. But most of all, he loved Judy, his first and only love.

He was born July 18, 1944 in Wheeling, WV, to the late John Weitzel, Jr & Frances Hayhurst Weitzel.

John was a United States Air Force Veteran and served during the Vietnam War and the Korean USS Pueblo Crisis. He is a 1962 graduate of Warwood High School. After starting at West Liberty College, he earned his Bachelor’s Degree in counseling from Wheeling College and his Masters from the University of Dayton. John worked at Northwood Health Systems as an LCSW outpatient mental health counselor for 20 years. He continued to serve his community at Wheeling Health Right as a clinical social worker until his passing. He was the most generous to those who were less fortunate. John gave the gift of life by being an organ donor.

In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his son, Scott Weitzel and his brother-in-law, Bob Wagner.

He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Judy Weitzel; his son, Sloan (Grace) Weitzel; his sister, Karen Wagner; his grandchildren, Montanna, Marissa, and Grayson; and several nieces and nephews.

As per his wishes, there will be no visitation or services. Interment will be at the convenience of the family at Greenwood Cemetery in Wheeling. Arrangements by Kepner Funeral Home 166 Kruger St. Wheeling, WV 26003 (304-242-2311). In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to Wheeling Health Right at www.wheeling healthright.com/ support/donate