John Walden

John P. Walden, 73 of Lebanon passed away on March 18, 2020 into the waiting arms of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ after a short illness. John was born in Hartford, CT on July 15, 1946, the son of the late Kenneth and Tessie (Prokopowicz) Walden. John is survived by his wife Kathryn (Pratt) Walden, brother -in-law Kevin Pratt and wife Marie, and sister-in-law Michele (Pratt) Miles and her husband Roger. John is survived by a niece and several nephews. John had a love of farming and animals at a very early age. He grew up on his grandparents’ farm only speaking Polish. When he started school, he then learned English. John was a graduate of Lyman Memorial High School and the University of Connecticut School of Agriculture. During his high school years, he was excellent in all languages and many teachers thought that he should be an interpreter, but farming was in his blood. In 1966, along with his parents they purchased the farm on Exeter Rd., where he farmed until 2012. In 1973, he was named Outstanding Young Farmer. During that time, he also drove a school bus many times ending up with the “difficult” kids. John belong to and was Master of the Lebanon Grange. He also worked at Tractor Supply in Griswold for a while using his many years of knowledge in farming. John was a communicate of St. Francis of Assisi Church in Lebanon where he was a member of the Knights of Columbus Council #9653. In 2015, he started the annual Plant Sale which has been a success every year. He was named Knight of the year that same year.
Along with dairy farming John was known for his gardening skills always growing a huge vegetable garden. In 1994, he started J&K Veggies selling the many vegetables that he grew.
The veggie stand also included both flowers and plants. John enjoyed the customers and helping them with what plant would grow best where. Once he sold the farm he downsized from cows to rabbits and turned his green thumb towards beautiful flower gardens. People always remarked how vibrant the flowers and colors were.
John also had a knack for telling a story and he had plenty. From the time he was a boy growing up, to the years driving a school bus, and the days and years of farming. They may not of had a point, but they certainly were entertaining.
A Celebration of John’s Life will be held at a later date.
Memorial contributions can be made to Knight of Columbus Council #9653 c/o St. Francis of Assisi Church, 67 West Town Street, Lebanon, CT 06249.

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