John A. Hafliger was born April 1, 1934, in rural Trego County, KS to Friedrich J. and Stella (Lessor) Hafliger. He passed away Wednesday, October 28, 2009, in the Kansas Medical Center at Andover, KS at the age of 75.


He attended elementary classes in Mont Rose School District #51, graduated from Trego Community High School in 1952, and attended Fort Hays State University. John served in the United States Army from 1954 to 1956. He then returned home to farm and ranch on the family farm southwest of WaKeeney.


On August 6, 1961, John married Doris Marie Mehl in the Holy Cross Lutheran Church at Dodge City, KS.


John was a member of the Fraternal Order of Eagles Aerie #3774 and the Bethlehem Lutheran Church. He served on the church council from 1975-1977.


John followed each of his son's activities during their years in school. He continued that ritual by following the grandchildren's activities as each one had a special spot in John's heart. He treasured the times spent with them and family.


Survivors include his wife, Doris, of the home; three sons, Fred A. and wife, Gretchen, of WaKeeney, John, Jr. and wife, Kathy, of Hays, Mark and wife, Connie, of Beloit; five grandchildren, Tyler, Beth, Paige, Allie, Matthew; two step-grandchildren, Shane Russell and wife, Alysia, Heath Russell and wife Kristy; three step-great-grandchildren, Karson, Megan, and Dustan; a brother Fred Raymond Hafliger of McKenney, TX; and three sisters, Clara Stoppel and Joan Stoppel, both of Sublette, and Fern Clark of Perryton, TX.


He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Floyd and William Hafliger; and two infant brothers.


Services for John were held Saturday, October 31, 2009 in the Bethlehem Lutheran Church with Pastor Randy Gibbs and Intern Melinda McCluskey officiating. Interment is in the WaKeeney City Cemetery.


Memorials are suggested to the Bethlehem Lutheran Church and can be sent in care of Schmitt Funeral Home, 336 N 12th, WaKeeney, KS 67672.