John M. Walburn

Celebrating the Life of John M Walburn

Our family invites friends and loved ones to join us in celebrating the life of John M Walburn, 80, of Lawrence, Kansas, who passed away peacefully at his home on September 20, 2026.

John was born on September 19, 1946, in Hays, Kansas, to William and Pearl (Picking) Walburn. He grew up in Hays and, at just 17 years old, joined the United States Navy after high school. He was stationed in Corpus Christi, Texas, beginning a life marked by hard work, dedication, and service.

On February 28, 1970, John married the love of his life, Sharon Geiger, in Hays, Kansas. Together, they shared 56 years of marriage, building a family and a lifetime of memories. Sharon was by John's side throughout their journey, including his final days at home.

John spent 33 years working as a chemical worker for ICL, where he built a career through his strong work ethic and commitment. But for those who knew John best, his greatest accomplishment wasn't his career—it was his family.

John was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He is survived by his wife, Sharon, of the home; his children, Jay Walburn (Linda) of Oskaloosa, John Walburn (Marci) of Phoenix, Arizona, and Jeff Walburn of Lawrence; seven grandchildren, Jesse (Jordan), Dalton, Taylor, Grayson, Maleah, Jahna (Russ) and Nora; step grandchildren, James, Ricky and Jessica; eight great-grandchildren and two step great-grandchildren.

His family was his greatest source of pride, and the memories they created together will continue to live on through the generations that follow him.

John was preceded in death by his parents, William and Pearl Walburn; his brother, LeRoy; and his sister, Louise.

While we will deeply miss John, we will also celebrate the life he lived, the love he gave, the lessons he taught, and the memories he leaves behind. His life touched many people, but his greatest legacy will always be the family he loved and the generations that will carry his memory forward.

Please join our family in remembering and celebrating John on October 10, 2026, from noon to 3:30 p.m. at the Lawrence Depot in Lawrence, Kansas.

We welcome everyone who knew and loved John to come share stories, memories, laughter, and time together as we celebrate a life well lived.

Memorial contributions in John’s name may be made to Douglas County Visiting Nurses, Lawrence Kansas.