OBITUARY: John Chisholm

John Chisholm

John Roderick Chisholm, known his whole life as “Rod,” joined the heavenly barbershop choir of angels on April 11, 2023, from the comfort of his home in Mesquite, NV, just one week shy of his 87th birthday, with his wife of 60 years by his side.

He was born in Cody, Wyoming to Francis and Roberta (Sinclair) Chisholm, and raised in Laramie, Wyoming. Rod adored his home state. He was honored by his alma mater, the University of Wyoming (1958), with the Fan of the Year Award, for his perpetual enthusiasm and support for all things “Cowboys.” His wardrobe consisted only of brown and gold. “Dr. Rod” attended Loyola Dental School in Chicago and served as a captain in the Army Dental Corp at Fort Knox. He retired after 38 years of dental practice in 2003 to travel, visiting many countries.

A devoted family man, Rod scheduled his patients around his children’s athletic competitions and Wyoming Cowboy sports. He drove to these events with one hand on the wheel and the other holding his wife’s hand.

Rod enjoyed life-long friendships and rarely missed his weekly coffee group, where world problems were discussed and solved. His home was always open, and together with his wife, they hosted numerous parties and backyard barbeques. Music was his passion, and he served as song leader in Rotary Club and sang bass in the Presbyterian Church choir and in barbershop quartets.

He was active in the community and state as president of the Laramie Chamber of Commerce, Wyoming State Board of Dental Examiners, and the Delta Dental Board. He moved to Mesquite, NV in 2018 for his health.

Rod is survived by his wife, Maxine (Simmons) Chisholm; sons: Ron (Carrie) of Fort Atkinson, WI, Mike (Lydia) San Jose, CA, and daughter Roberta Lockard (Chet) of Laramie, WY; as well as seven grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

A celebration of life will be held Saturday, April 22 at 11:00am at Valley Presbyterian Church, 350 Falcon Ridge Parkway # 702, Mesquite, NV. A reception will follow at Rod’s home.

Family and friends can sign an online memorial guestbook at www.starmortuary.com.