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It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of John Arthur Waller, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, who left this world on June 22, 2025, at the age of 86. John was born on April 8, 1939, in Macon, Missouri, to Russell and Wilma Waller, who instilled in him the values of hard work, kindness, and dedication.
John’s early life was marked by academic success; he graduated from Macon High School in 1957 and went on to earn degrees from the University of Missouri-Columbia and the University of Oklahoma, where he obtained specialty training in orthopedic surgery. His pursuit of knowledge laid the foundation for a remarkable career in medicine. John proudly served as a Captain in the United States Air Force, where he worked as a flight surgeon while stationed in Ankara, Turkey. His military service not only reflected his commitment to his country, but also his dedication to caring for others.
After his military service, John embarked on a fulfilling career as an orthopedic surgeon, practicing in both Colorado and Arkansas for over 30 years. His contributions to the field impacted the lives of countless patients, and he was known for his compassionate care and unwavering commitment to his profession. John retired in 2010, leaving behind a legacy of excellence and a reputation as a skilled and caring physician.
In 1994, John married Trish Waller and together they created a beautiful life filled with love, laughter, and adventure. They cherished their time on their ranch in Morganton, Arkansas, where they cultivated a large garden each year, raised a few cattle, and enjoyed the simple pleasures of life together, including duck hunting, fishing, and traveling. Their bond was a testament to their faith as they regularly attended church together until John’s illness required them to stay closer to home.
John was a devoted father to his three children—Tracy (James) Corbo, Jack (Michelle) Waller, and Courtney (Anita) Waller—and later embraced his role as a loving stepfather to Trish’s children, Kelley (Chris) Gripe, Todd (Jen) Henry, and Andrea (James) Maulden. His love extended to several grandchildren: Tyler, Sterling, Cassidy, Preston, Jordan, Alyssa, Mackenzie, Karsten, and Cooper as well as several great grandchildren.
John is preceded in death by his cherished son, Matthew Waller, as well as his parents, Wilma and Russell Waller, his brother J.R. Waller, and his sister Connie Bentz. While these losses are deeply felt, the love and memories John shared with his family will continue to shine brightly in their lives.
As we remember John, we honor his kindness, strength, and unwavering spirit. His gentle demeanor and ability to connect with people will be missed by all who knew him.
A time of visitation to honor and remember John Waller will be held on Friday, June 27, 2025 from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at Ozark View Funeral Home.
In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that donations be made in the memory of John Waller to The Station in Damascus, Arkansas and The Arkansas Sheriffs' Youth Ranch in Batesville, Arkansas, you can make donations by visiting www.youthranches.com/ways-to-help
Arrangements have been entrusted to Ozark View Funeral Home. To share a memory or kind words to the family, please visit www.ozarkviewfuneralhome.com
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of John Arthur Waller M.D., please visit our floral store.