John Albert Griffiths

Born on June 21, 1936, in urban Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, John was the beloved son of Thomas and Edith Griffiths and grew up alongside his siblings Richard (Dick), Virginia (Ginny), Robert (Bob), and Marilyn.

In 1954, John proudly joined the United States Air Force, beginning a life of service and adventure that took him around the world. Over the years, he lived in places such as Japan, Vietnam, Kwajalein, Saipan, Hawai’i, and California while serving both in the military and later as a contractor for the Department of Defense and in the telecommunications industry. These experiences exposed him to sensitive programs and technologies that later inspired much of his writing.

John spent over 30 years as a telecommunications engineer with Sprint, a role that brought him to Kansas in 1986, where he and his family would put down lasting roots. He was a devoted father who filled his children’s lives with unforgettable adventures—taking them on countless road trips, camping excursions, visits to Disney World, and beach vacations. He had a deep love for exploring new places and sharing those moments with his family.

Later in life, John discovered a passion for writing. After years of writing technical papers and contract language, he developed a craving to express his myriad—and sometimes unconventional—ideas through fiction. His dedication to historical accuracy and journalistic clarity gave his writing a distinctive style, particularly suited to stories of espionage and intrigue.

John authored three fiction novels—Nuclear Affairs, Major Frog, and The Argon Legacy—drawing heavily from his military and civilian life experiences. He also wrote a horror fiction novel titled Yeast, published under the pen name Ivor Grimsby, which showcased his imaginative range and sharp storytelling instincts.

John is survived by his loving wife, Sally; his five daughters—Sandy, Jennifer (Jenny), Alissa (Lisa), Christine (Christie), and Rebecca (Becca); and three cherished grandchildren: Ava, Benjamin (Benji), and Elliot.

He will be remembered for his dedication to his work, his love for family, his adventurous spirit, and the stories he told—both in life and on the page.