John Wetten's family has released an official obituary for the namesake of Gladstone's sole elementary school, and the Gladstone School District is among the organizations that his family has suggested for memorial gifts.
Memorial gifts in Wetten's memory will be dedicated for use by students at his namesake John Wetten Elementary School, and managed in the same way he himself established with the school team. John and his wife, Marilee, created a private endowment account in 2021 which sends monthly earned interest payments to the school to be used for student needs and so students can connect more with seniors in the community.
During his 24 years as school principal, Wetten was known for his generous spirit, reaching into his own pocket to buy children shoes, for example, when a family could not afford to buy new shoes for a student. Wetten's endowment will continue to be used at the school when a student's family has a pressing need.
Wetten's fund is also being used for JWE students to connect with seniors through field trips to the Gladstone Community Center and local retirement facilities. His generosity has purchased greeting cards so students can maintain pen-pal relationships with seniors through the mail. Cash or check donations to the Wetten fund can be made to the Gladstone School District, 17789 Webster Road, Gladstone OR 97027.
The Gladstone School District previously shared an article about the positive difference that Wetten made for individuals and the broader community during his lifetime. Please visit Wetten's official obituary to learn more about his life and share memories.