John was born in Berwyn, Illinois, on August 17, 1933, and passed away peacefully on July 28, 2021, the son of John Sr. and Earla (Oshel) Elftmann and brother of Lillian Jane.

Following college John joined the Air Force and began a 30 year career that stationed him in Japan, Korea, Vietnam, Germany, and numerous stateside locations.  For his service he earned the Legion of Merit, Distinguished Flying Cross, Airman’s Medal, and Bronze Star.

John married Martha “Marty” Shook on June 6, 1959, and they enjoyed 62 years of wedded bliss.  They raised three children as the Air Force moved the family around the country and over to Germany before he retired in Bellevue, Nebraska. After retiring from the Air Force he enjoyed successful careers at Mutual of Omaha and First Data Corporation which relocated him to London, England.  Eventually, John retired for good and he and Marty made their way to Blair, Nebraska.

Although retired, John did not settle down and spent many years as a volunteer driver for the Motorist Assist unit of the Nebraska State Patrol.  He and Marty continued to travel the world and he enjoyed hosting his children and grandchildren at his “house on the hill” in Blair.

John is survived by his wife Martha “Marty”, daughter Karin Elftmann-Gross (Jimmie), daughter Linda Hanson (David), son John (Karen), grandchildren Rachel Lucas (Kevin), Matthew Moore, Rebecca Cartwright (Mike), Patrick Hanson, Christina Hanson, Sarah Elftmann, John “Jack” Elftmann, and 6 great-grandchildren.

Lastly, John never stopped looking for William/Bill “Deano” Dean with whom he served in Vietnam.  The family would greatly appreciate contact info for Bill or his family.  Please email fawnridge@elftmann.com.

Visitation:  Saturday, August 7, 3:00-4:30 p.m., followed by Funeral Service:  at 4:30 p.m., both at Bellevue Memorial Funeral Chapel.

Interment:  Monday, August 9, 1:00 p.m., Omaha National Cemetery