John Wilson was born in Bendigo in 1892. At the time of enlistment, 29 February, 1916, his father was deceased and widowed mother was Elizabeth Wilson. His occupation is listed as farmer. On 4 April 1916, after 2 months training at Seymour, embarked for the UK on the HMAT Euripides A14.

Based in London initially at several Training Camps, John was court-martialed for several offences relating to AWOL and escaping from confinement. His punishment was an extended period of detention and pay docked. On 16 July 1917 he proceeded to France from Southhampton. He marched into the 4th Australian Division Base Depot on Havre. On 4 August he was taken on strength to join the 46th Battalion.

On 19 August 1917 Private John Wilson was killed in action in Belgium. His records contain no further information regarding the circumstances of his death. He was buried at Derry House Cemetery North of Messines, West-Vlaanderen, Plot 2, Row B. John's name i also recorded on the Australian War Meorial Roll of Honour, Panel 142.