Obituary of Jon M. Shiffer
Deceased 11 December 2017 - note from Lee Cranney
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Served with F Troop 1971-72; call sign Centaur 4
Jon M. Shiffer was born, Feb 8, 1939 in Wieser, ID, to Walter & Donna Shiffer.
As a young man, Jon joined the military and served his Country honorably. His bravery during the Vietnam War earned him a Bronze medal. He flew helicopters, running many search and rescue missions saving and helping anyone he could. He retired with honors from the US Army as a Major. Several years after retiring, Jon volunteered for reenlistment during the gulf war, and severed as a liaison officer.
Upon retiring from the Army, Jon and his beautiful bride of 60 years, moved to Star, ID to be near Ellen's parents. Jon became a farmer when he decided that he wanted to fly like the Eagles. Jon loved to fly airplanes, and was always looking for that ultimate thrill. Jon and Ellen then moved to Walla Walla, WA where Jon continued his love for Flying as he became a Captain for Cascade Airlines. After living in Walla Walla for several years, Jon and Ellen moved to Seatitle Wa to take on a new type of adventure.
Jon and Ellen Purchased a 44 foot Monk Bridge Deck Cruiser, known as "RUMPY" by family and friends, in which they lived on for a little over 9 yrs on Lake Union in Seattle. During this time they restored her to her "Former Glory", and he always referred to it as "A Labor of Love". The boat is currently owned by Jon's son Mark, and is once again being lovingly restored after years of neglect after being sold several times post Jon owning her.
After Jon and Ellen's many adventures on their beloved boat, they decided to buy a home, and become Land lovers again where he lived out his final years. They found their dream home in Brier, WA and Jon finally had his wood shop that he has always wanted at this home, and that is when he took up wood working. With his wood working knowledge he built and designed many beautiful items for family and friends. In his later years he tried to pass this knowledge down to his son mark.
Jon was well known for was his love and loyalty for his family, and his dogs: Casey and Daisy. Being family to him didn't always mean that you were related by blood, or marriage. Something you could always count on from Jon, was a good story about his adventures, especially his pranks on those he loved. Jon definitely had a zest for life, car's, airplanes, woodworking, and boats.
Jon passed away peacefully on Dec 11, 2017, surrounded by family and friends in his home after being ill for many years.
He is preceded in death by his parents Walter & Donna Shiffer, his 3 brothers and 2 Sisters, and his eldest son Chris.
Jon Shiffer is survived by his Wife, Ellen Shiffer of Brier, WA; his Son and Daughter in Law, Mark and Ruth Shiffer of Seattle, WA; as well as many cousins, nieces and nephews.
Wiley L "Lee" Cranney, Cobra Pilot 1970-71: One of the finest men I have had the pleasure of knowing. He was a gentle soul with a warrior's spirit. An innate sense of fair play and common sense. I will miss him always.
Lee Cranney
Centaur 49
F Troop 4th Air Cav
Lai Khe '70-'71
January 07, 2018