Gregory Ron Haflich

Greg passed away unexpectedly from a heart attack on Monday, July 21, 2025, in Kansas City, Missouri, surrounded by his daughters and wife. He was born in Kansas City, Kansas, to Laverne Van De Veer Haflich and Dayton Clare Haflich, and was raised in Westwood, Kansas.

Greg graduated from Shawnee Mission North High School in 1972. He attended the University of Kansas, where, as a proud member of Delta Chi Fraternity, he earned a journalism degree in 1976.

Greg began his career working in the family business, running delivery routes for his father, before transitioning into advertising. Over several decades and across multiple agencies, he became a respected figure in the metro area, known as an “Ad Man”, earning a reputation for creativity and leadership.

In 1985, Greg married his wife, Joan. They welcomed their first daughter, Claire Elizabeth, in 1987, followed by Carolyn (“Carly”) Grace in 1990.

Greg was a hands on dad in every sense. He taught his daughters how to fish and took them sailing, sharing his love for the outdoors along with his favorite motto: “There’s no such thing as bad weather, just bad gear.” He volunteered at his daughters’ schools for career days, coached their softball teams, and supported their musical pursuits. A committed Jayhawks fan, Greg cheered on Kansas basketball at every opportunity.

Upon retiring in 2020, Greg chose to step away from work during the pandemic so he could spend more time with his granddaughter.

He had many passions: playing guitar, cooking and grilling, traveling, attending live music, and notably, performing with the Bad Dadz band at community events like the Prairie Village Art Festival.

Greg was preceded in death by his parents; father-in-law Richard; brother-in-law Harry; sister-in-law Carol; nephew Kyle; and great-nephew Cody. He is survived by his wife, Joan; daughters Claire and Carly; son-in-law Nick Hazel; and his two young grandchildren, who were the light of his life.

A Celebration of Life for Greg will be held at 1 p.m. on Saturday, August 23, 2025, at the Johnson County Arts & Heritage Center. The event is open to all who wish to attend.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Wildwood Outdoor Education Center.