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.