John Clifford Loflin

John Clifford Loflin, age 95, of Ogallah, Kansas, passed away peacefully with his wife and family by his side at the family farm on Monday, September 11, 2023. He was born on June 15, 1928, in Ogallah to loving parents, Clifford John and Katherine Barbara (Breit) Loflin. On February 4, 1950, he married the love of his life, Irene Mae Zerfas, in Hays, Kansas, and they shared an incredible journey together spanning 73 beautiful years.

John proudly served his country as a United States Navy Veteran. Following his military service, John established himself as a dedicated entrepreneur in 1965 with Loflin Earth Moving and soil conservation business. It was very important for John to be a part of the (KLICA) Kansas Land Improvement Contractors Association for 55 years in conjunction with his business. He was also a part-time farmer, always with a passion for nurturing the land. In his younger years, John embarked on a career in construction, traveling from one job to another, often accompanied by his beloved Irene. Their adventures forged enduring friendships with coworkers and their spouses, bonds that remain strong to this day. Work was not just a necessity for John; it was his passion, and he relished the challenges of maintaining and operating heavy equipment. He was a true craftsman and a "Shade Tree Engineer."

After retiring, John and Irene seized the opportunity to explore the United States during the winter months, including remarkable journeys to Alaska in their "souped-up" Fortravel. These travels brought them immense joy and allowed them to cultivate lifelong friendships along the way. In the rare moments he allowed himself a hobby, John dedicated his time to restoring classic vehicles, including Clifford's Jeep Pickup, IH Truck, assorted Jeeps, and a Model T.

In his daily routine, John could be found at the shop, tending to equipment, and caring for the animals around the farm and shop. His dedication to his craft and his love for the land were evident to all who knew him.

John is survived by his loving wife Irene, with whom he shared 73 years of cherished memories. He is also survived by his children: John Michael "Mike" Loflin (Brenda) of Hays, Richard Loflin of Pryor, Oklahoma, Susan Anderson (Bill) of Topeka, Kansas, and Sandy Loflin Reetz of WaKeeney, Kansas: and a sister, Marjorie Miller. His legacy continues through his adoring grandchildren: Tammy Gros, Corey Anderson, Isaac Anderson, Dylan Loflin, Dion Reetz, Ceri Coffield, and Reine Meyer. Additionally, he leaves behind great-grandchildren: Sage Murphy, Henry Anderson, Elise Anderson, Owen Anderson, Marin Coffield, Emilia Coffield, Braden Gros, John Anderson, Elizabeth Anderson, Rinzlee Loflin, and soon to join, Oaklee Reetz.

John was preceded in death by his parents, an infant daughter, Judy Ann, and a sister, Barbara Rathbun.

Funeral services will be held 10:30 AM Saturday, September 16, 2023 at Christ Lutheran Church in Ellis. Burial to follow in the Mt. Hope Cemetery in Ellis, where he will receive Military Honors. Funeral services will be live streamed on Facebook Live. You can access this option by the funeral home web site by selecting the services tab and then the Facebook Live tab.

Visitation will be Friday 5 PM – 7 PM and Saturday 10 AM – service time all at Christ Lutheran Church.

The family kindly requests memorial contributions to be made to Hospice, Tunnel to Towers, or St. Jude Hospital.

Condolences and memories may be shared on John's tribute page at www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com.

Services are entrusted to the care of Keithley Funeral Chapel, 400 E. 17th, Ellis, KS 67637.

John Loflin's legacy lives on through the memories he leaves behind, the love he shared with his family, and the friendships he forged throughout his remarkable life. He will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.