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Weldon Jerome McFadden |
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May 1, 1948 ~ September 16, 2016 |
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September 19, 2016 |
 Weldon
Jerome McFadden was born May 1, 1948, in Lodi,
Ohio. He walked on in his journey September 16,
2016.
As a youngster, Weldon worked hard on the family
farm. He attended and joined (with baptism) East
Chippewa Church of the Brethren. Weldon was a
proud member of the Cahokia Shawnee (of the
Great River Region, turtle clan). His tribal
name was Eagle’s Heart Soaring. At home his
sister called him “Chief."
Weldon’s family took yearly camping vacations,
and Weldon added the element of adventure to
every trip. At age 11 he was chased by the
largest grizzly on record at the time in
Yellowstone Park. Of course he ran to the
campfire to share the chase, and several
screaming women scared the bear off to a trap.
Going to Alaska, Weldon attempted to be the
first one there by running ahead of the car when
his father pulled off. Much to the ire of his
sister, he won, and got 25 cents. Wherever
Weldon was, excitement ensued.
At age 17, Weldon’s family moved to northern
Minnesota, on the Canadian border. His lifelong
occupation as a farm laborer began, operating
farm equipment and care of cattle. He was
considered ranch foreman by his peers.
Although Weldon was cantankerous on occasion, no
one had a better sense of humor and leadership .
His satire and jokes were the center of friend
and family get togethers. Many times his wild
stories were believed by the unsuspecting, and
needed straightened out. Weldon’s character was
a challenge for many to keep up with, as he set
higher standards for what was important in this
world.
Weldon’s love was music and videos; thrift
stores and pawn shops were his social life. He
loved to ride around with his nephew Ross.
In the late 90s Weldon moved to Idaho to be with
family. He was best friends and protector of his
little sister, Flory.
Weldon’s last endeavor to make the world better
was the Boundary County Fairgrounds grandstand.
He wished that donations could be made to
enlarge the handicap sitting area, so that all
those who had served the community could in
their older years have comfortable seating to
enjoy 4-H shows.
Weldon was preceded in death by his father, Ross
McFadden. He is survived by his mother, Louise
McFadden, brother Asa (Verla) McFadden, sister
Deborah (Daniel) Brunger, all from Florida, and
sister Flory (Bruce) Dally of Bonners Ferry,
along with friends Raoul, Jack, Russell, and
Bob. A special thanks to hospice, Jordana,
Cindy, and Gina.
“Well done” your life, Weldon. Your Eagle’s
Heart is now soaring. |
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