John B. Heffelfinger

John B. Heffelfinger, called "Jack" among family and friends, was born July 27, 1917 in Arkansas City, Kansas, son of John B. and Lucille (Parmenter) Heffelfinger. He was known for his intelligence, creativity, determination, helpfulness, and in later years for his ability to tell amusing tales from his life's experience. Starting from an early age, Jack demonstrated a fascination for electricity (he would - much to his mother's consternation - poke items into wall sockets to see what would happen), which culminated in a Bachelor of Science degree in Electrical Engineering from the University of Kansas, a Master of Science degree from Ohio State University, and a Professional Engineer Authorization Certificate from the State of Missouri. His independent nature led to his decision to become a self-employed radio and television engineer, in which he was supported by his wife Ann, who gave up her career wish and abilities as a dietician in order to become his secretary. The two became quite a team, and Jack enjoyed his work so much that he didn't retire until he was 72.

Next to his work, which involved writing his own computer programs, Jack had many hobbies. He enjoyed photographing landscapes and flowers, and then color-developed the pictures himself. He and Ann were avid rose growers and were members of four rose societies, participating in the rose shows given each spring and fall. In later years they completed the courses required to become accredited judges at the shows. Once his daughter started studying the violin, Jack became interested in collecting classical music recordings in addition to his Big Band favorites - a collection he was to use in later years at Kingswood to bring others joy.

His daughter remembers him as being a warm, loving, sensitive and helpful father, who was willing to help even if he thought he couldn't. "Don't come to me with your geometry proofs - I had trouble with them in school." She did anyway, and they ended up solving them together. He also had quite a sense of humor; he surreptitiously replaced a Mozart cassette she was using in her violin practice with one of Benny Goodman, for whom she had an aversion.

Jack liked to apply his creativity in original, practical ways, such as setting up an intercom system at home or making a very unique metronome for his daughter. For many years, Jack used his engineering abilities to radio broadcast the Sunday church service at Central United Methodist Church. He also helped the church's treasurer by creating the computer programs she needed, and was richly rewarded by her loyal, lifelong friendship.

Even after retirement, Jack was still fascinated by the computer and looking for ways to stay active and helpful. He now used the computer to print his pictures and the Christmas cards he faithfully sent every year. He offered some neighbors who were remodeling their cabin his help with the electrical wiring and gained even more friends late in life. The onset of macular degeneration was a blow to someone of his intelligence, creativity, and drive. He believed in going full speed in everything he did and expected those working for and around him to do the same. In spite of the loving support of friends and family, his frustration grew at not being able to do what he wanted himself.

Jack passed away February 3, 2014. He is survived by his daughter Carol Heffelfinger of Graz, Austria, his niece Susan Smith of Wichita, Kansas, and many friends. As much as Jack will be missed by those who were close to him, they can rejoice that he has now regained his sight, found inner peace and loving companionship, and is able to know the unknown.

Arrangements under the direction of Mount Moriah & Freeman Funeral Home, Kansas City, MO.