John W. Applebee

John Wayne Applebee, age 70, passed away peacefully at his home in Soldiers Grove, surrounded by the love of his family.

John was born on April 13, 1955, to Paul and Lila (Turben) Applebee. He grew up in Janesville, Wisconsin and attended Parker High School. John had a lifelong love for American muscle cars, especially his maroon 1970 Nova with a V8 engine—one of his favorite memories that he loved to reminisce about over the years.

Throughout his life, John worked a variety of jobs, including time at General Motors. After moving to Soldiers Grove, he found a place he truly loved and spent more than 30 years working for Badger Amusements.

In 1984, John met Cheryl Otterson. Together they built a loving blended family, adding three more girls to their lives. John cherished the time he spent with his family, especially the many trips they took together to Jellystone Park, South Dakota, and most of all Chetek, Wisconsin—a place that held a special place in his heart.

John had many passions. He loved hunting at “the land,” fishing at his favorite spots, and searching the woods for morel mushrooms. He enjoyed collecting coins and anything related to John Wayne. Bird watching was another favorite pastime, especially keeping an eye out for the orioles he loved so much. He also enjoyed bowling, visiting the casino, playing in his Thursday night pool league, and planning the annual family trip to Chetek that everyone looked forward to each year.

John also had a collection of nicknames including Willie, John Boy, and Johnny Appleseed, given to him by family and friends who loved him dearly.

He is survived by his significant other, Cheryl Otterson; his mother, Lila Applebee; his children, Shawn Otterson, Geramia Swadley, Jamie Otterson, Lucas Applebee, Jennifer Conner, Caitlin (Chanse Goss) Applebee, and Janna Applebee; his brother Jim (Kathy) Applebee; brother-in-law John Ferger; sisters Shyla (Wayne) Thayer, Paula (Larry) Owen, and Janet Applebee; and his 16 grandchildren, who brought him great pride and joy. He also leaves behind many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, friends, and a very special friend, Wild Bill Bremmer.

John was preceded in death by his father Paul Applebee; his grandparents Glen and Benetta Turben and Royden and Irene Applebee; his brother Jerry Applebee; his daughter Skylar Applebee; his son-in-law Barney Conner; and his niece Rhiannon Applebee.

The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Moments Hospice for the compassionate care they provided in John’s final months and for helping ensure he was comfortable and surrounded by love.

Family will be holding a Celebration of Life at the American Legion in Soldiers Grove on April 11, 2026, from 12:00 PM to 6:00 PM. Family and friends are invited to come share stories, memories, and celebrate the life of a man who meant so much to so many.

Roth Family Cremation Center and Funeral Services is assisting the family.

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.