John Dale Wilcox

John Dale Wilcox, born in Vale, Oregon to Wafe and Ara Wilcox on March 15, 1938, peacefully passed away on July 5, 2024. He was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and respected member of his community.

John married Remy Barnes in 1963, and together they raised three children: Marcus, Michael, and Karen. Growing up on a farm in Vale with seven siblings, John learned the value of hard work early in life. The family farm, carved out of sagebrush as part of a land ownership program, was where John spent his formative years tending crops and livestock while excelling in sports.

He graduated from Vale High School in 1956, where he played on the state championship football team for two consecutive years and was honored as a member of the Shriners All-Star team. John continued his education at Boise Junior College (now Boise State University, home of the Broncos), where he played football with distinction and was selected to the Junior College All-American team. He then completed his studies at the University of Oregon (home of the Ducks), where he also played football and earned recognition as a member of the East-West College All-Star team.

His athletic prowess led him to be drafted by the Philadelphia Eagles, becoming a member of their 1960 world championship team and later earning induction into the Philadelphia Hall of Fame as a member of that team. Despite his achievements, John remained humble. He rarely spoke about his accomplishments; it was only with encouragement from others that he would occasionally share stories and bring out his championship ring, though he never wore it.

After his professional football career, John returned to Oregon, where he pursued teaching and coaching. He taught mathematics and served as head football coach at Rex Putnam High School in Milwaukie and Jefferson High School in Portland. It was during this time that he met and fell in love with Remy, who would become his lifelong partner for 61 years.

In 1967 John joined Whitman College as a professor of physical education and assistant football coach under Roy Thompson, achieving success in rebuilding the football program. Over his 29-year tenure, he transitioned to become the men's basketball coach for 8 seasons and the women's basketball coach for 15 seasons, in addition to serving as athletic director. Coach Wilcox achieved notable success including conference championships and conference Coach of the Year. In 2011, his legacy was honored with induction into the Whitman College Athletics Hall of Fame. His integrity and commitment to his students and athletes left a lasting impact, as many remembered him not only for his coaching but for his genuine care and guidance in life.

John and his family lived in Milton-Freewater on an orchard along the Walla Walla River raising apples and then cherries for thirty-six years. After retiring from Whitman he served for ten years as the general manager for Blue Mountain Growers which was honored with the Business of the Year award from the Walla Walla Valley Chamber of Commerce in 2008. His dedication to the community extended to serving on the boards of Mac-Hi School for 8 years and Blue Mountain Growers for 20 years. In 2013 John was awarded the Golden Pioneer award by the Milton Freewater Chamber of Commerce honoring his long-time commitment to the community.

As a part of his relationship with the Lord, John was actively involved in Christ Community Fellowship, where he served as an elder, small group leader, and Sunday school teacher. John's faith in Jesus was a guiding principle in how he chose to live his life. Known for his integrity, John was a man of his word.

John's greatest joy was his family. He cherished his role as husband, father, and grandfather, attending countless sports, music, and theater events for his children and grandchildren.

John is survived by his wife Remy; children Marcus (Karen), Michael (Melissa), and Karen (Patrick); grandchildren Kasey (Jimmy), Madison (Ellis), Riley, Reece, Owen, and Paige; great-grandchildren Everly and Bristol; brother Jerry (Sylvia); sister Mary; sister-in-law Merle; and remembered fondly by numerous nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his brothers Charles, Jim, Watt, Joe, and Dave, and his granddaughter, Sierra Carman.

John's legacy of kindness, dedication, and leadership will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing him.

A memorial service to remember John will be held Saturday, July 27th at 2:00 pm at Trinity Baptist Church, 595 Abbott Road, Walla Walla.

Memorial contributions may be made to Christ Community Fellowship or Good Samaritan Ministries through the Herring Groseclose Funeral Home, 315 W Alder St, Walla Walla WA 99362. In addition, friends and family are invited to sign the online guestbook at www.herringgroseclose.com.