John Newton Schelske

April 17, 1945 – December 27, 2025

John Newton Schelske passed away peacefully at his home in Lompoc, California, on December 27, 2025. He is now in the loving arms of his Lord and Savior.

John was born in Aberdeen, Idaho on April 17, 1945, to Alexander and Anna Marie Schelske. He was the second to youngest and spent his early years on the farm with his parents, brothers, and sisters. John attended schools in Aberdeen until his junior year of high school. His interest in becoming a pastor led him to finish high school at Concordia in Portland, Oregon.

After high school, John moved to California and attended college in Santa Barbara. He was drafted in 1967 and served honorably in the Vietnam War. Upon returning home, he resumed his studies in Santa Barbara, showing resilience and dedication to his education.

John eventually bought a home in Port Orford, Oregon, where he cherished spending time with family and friends. He was known for his generosity and was always ready to lend a helping hand to anyone in need. His love for reading, especially the Bible, and his passion for learning new languages reflected his lifelong commitment to personal growth and faith.

Seeking a warmer climate, John decided to make Lompoc, California his home for the past 20 years. He delighted in welcoming family and friends, often giving tours of Santa Barbara and sharing his favorite local spots. John enjoyed his time on the farm, fishing in Oregon, taking long drives along the California coast, and watching sunsets at the Air Force Base near his home in Lompoc.

John was known for his great sense of humor and infectious laughter, quickly making friends and lifting spirits wherever he went.

John is survived by his brother, Bob (Maureen) Schelske of American Falls, Idaho, and his sister, Sandra Neff of Dayton, Ohio, as well as many beloved nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Alexander and Marie Schelske, his sister, Jeanette Funk, and his brother, Richard Schelske.

John’s legacy of kindness, faith, and joy will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him. He will be deeply missed.

A graveside service will be held on Friday, January 9th, 2025 at 2:00 p.m. at the Aberdeen, Idaho Cemetery. Following the graveside, family and friends are welcome to gather at the Mandarin House in Pocatello, Idaho to share memories of John and celebrate his life. Arrangements are by Davis-Rose Mortuary, American Falls, Idaho.