John Anton Hafla, the 8th child of Anton Joseph Hafla and Agnes Hanel Hafla, was born July 5, 1928, in Wason Flats, Montana, passed in his sleep at Sweetwater Retirement in Billings, Montana on Wednesday, May 20, 2015. John’s parents, immigrants from Alexandria, Russia instilled in John a strong sense of hard work, along with Christian and frugal values.
John was a member of the 307th Fighter Squadron; part of the Army Air Corps. He enlisted October 23, 1946; spent time traveling throughout the United States and parts of Europe. He was discharged October 22, 1949 after receiving the rank of Staff Sergeant; the Good Conduct Medal and the Occupation Medal Germany including the Berlin Airlift.
When John returned home to Miles City, Montana, he met and married Aldeen Agatha Shockley on August 19, 1950; their living children include Deborah Lee, Sandra Ann, and Sima Rae Serena. Unfortunately Aldeen was killed in a car accident July 19, 1971.
John was an accomplished individual who worked as a mechanic at Valley Auto, a bartender at the Moose Club, and a brakeman with the Milwaukee Railroad but spent the majority of his career as the power plant supervisor for Montana Dakota Utilities. He always felt fortunate that he had such a great job and wonderful people to work with.
John married Katherine Louise Grutkowski October 1, 1988. They had 10 wonderful years together until Katy lost her battle with cancer on March 3, 1998.
October 28, 1999 John married his long-time friend and partner Laurel Jean Lockwood. John and Jean hosted many card parties, enjoyed boating, camping and fishing and always had a welcome sign on the side door.
John was an avid hunter, fisherman and rock hound. A self-taught jeweler, he always enjoyed showing everyone his many fine pieces of Montana Moss Agate, faceted stones and unique statues. He taught his grandsons the fine art of demolishing the local area prairie dog towns.
John is survived by his wife Jean Hafla, his daughters Deborah Ruppe, Sandra Law (husband Jim), and Simmy Audet (husband Allan); his grandchildren John Ruppe, Dr. Aaron Audet, (wife Heather); Melanie Perry (husband Von); and Ashley Holkum (husband Jonathan). Great-grandchildren Lena Johnson, Bode and Hudson Audet, Cadderly Perry, and Hadley Holkum. Along with his sisters Agnes Cremer (Bob), and Rose Schantz.
The family would especially like to thank the wonderful caring staff at Sweetwater Retirement.
Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Saturday, May 30, 2015 at 10:00 a.m. at the Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Miles City. Rite of Committal will follow in the family lot of the Calvary Cemetery. Stevenson & Sons Funeral Home of Miles City is in charge of the arrangements. Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting: www.stevensonandsons.com.
Martha Crandall says
Sorry to hear about John.
Wanda Holmlund says
Debbie & Family: So sorry to hear of your loss. John was a great neighbor for many years and I have a lot of memories of your family.
Cheryl Smutt says
I am sorry for your loss.
Preston Willson says
I’m very sorry to hear of Johns passing I hope his life was good right to the end. It’s hard to believe that its been 40 years since I was part (more or less ) of your family, so many memories. I wish I could visit with all of you but (unless it rains) I will be unable to attend the service, we’re branding and something are hard to change.
My love and best wishes to all of you.
God Bless, Preston
Tim and Cheri Hafla says
Our thoughts and prayers are with you all..
Susan Hunnicutt says
Debi,Sandy, & Simmy,
Your family was part of my life growing up. I have great memories. I can still see him driving us around in his big old car!! We all went bowling one night and he was very patient with me. That couldn’t have been much fun for him.
He was a tough old cookie, but I always respected him.
My thoughts are with you. I wish I could be there.
Sue
Tony & Helen Dyba Billings says
John was My special uncle, He & I both worked for Valley Motor Supply in Miles City, He got Me the Job I had for almost 40 Years. THANKS THANKS THANKS.
A SPECIAL PRAYER FOR YOU, JOHN. TD.
Maureen O'Reilly says
Simie – I was so sorry to hear about your Dad’s passing. It is never easy to lose a parent. You are in my thoughts and prayers
Kim Stanton says
Dear Agnes, Rose, and Families~
Please accept our condolences on the passing of John. We know he will be greatly missed. May the Holy Spirit, the Divine Comforter, bring you all consolation and peace in the coming days.
With loving sympathy,
Dan and Kim Stanton
Jennifer Cline Hogan says
Dear Simmy and family,
I am so sorry for the loss of your dad. I am feeling your pain. I remember fondly the fun we had playing in the playhouse he built for you and “helping” him in his abundant garden. And, of course, his beautiful rock and crystal collection in the basement. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Louise Donnelly says
My thoughts and prayers are with you.