John W. Waller's Obituary
John W. Waller, a native of Martha’s Vineyard, spent his life by the sea, and in his 67 years, tested many waters; both literally and figuratively.
Before being appointed Water Department Superintendant in Edgartown, MA at age 26, he built wharves and docks, earned pocket money playing acoustic guitar, and served in the Air Force. Much of his spare time was spent fishing and sailing; he once owned a scallop boat and one of his favorite pastimes was surf-casting for bluefish and striped bass.
A devotee of guitar players Tom Rush and Lightnin’ Hopkins, John Waller played 12-string acoustic guitar in the bars and coffeehouses of Boston and Cape Cod. After a brief stint in Boston University, he enlisted in the Air Force and served as a radar analyst in Turkey and Omaha, Nebraska during the Vietnam Conflict.
In 1980, at age 36, he relocated to South Hadley, MA where he was Superintendent of Water for 15 years. While in South Hadley, he served as President of the Lion’s Club and spent much of his time at the Redcliff Canoe club, learning to fish in fresh water.
John spent his later years in Fredericksburg and Culpeper, VA, where he continued working in the water supply industry. He was an active member of the community, and kept chickens on his property in Culpeper. He is survived by his son, John Patrick Waller, brothers Steven and Robert Waller, sisters Dorothy Walker, Mary Gazaille and Allouise Morgan, devoted friend Paul Henrick, and beloved nieces and nephews.
A celebration of John’s life will be held on Martha’s Vineyard at the convenience of the family.
What’s your fondest memory of John?
What’s a lesson you learned from John?
Share a story where John's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with John you’ll never forget.
How did John make you smile?