John Francis Stiffler

John Francis Stiffler, 88, of Austin, Texas died on October 20, 2023. John was born on July 2, 1935, in Selma, Indiana and grew up in Muncie, Indiana where he graduated from Muncie Central High School (1953).

John attended the University of Oklahoma, playing football for the late coach Bud Wilkinson. Before completing his studies, he was drafted and served 2 years in the U.S. Navy, earning a National Defense Service Medal for his service at the end of the Korean War. Upon his discharge from the Navy (1956), he returned home and attended Ball State University, where he lettered in football and earned a Bachelor of Science in Education (1959). After graduation, he began a management career in the telecommunications and aviation industries, holding roles with GTE, Eastern Air Lines, Braniff Airways, British Caledonian, and Ogden Corporation among others. After retiring, he devoted his time to serving as the Executive Director of Habitat for Humanity Monterey Bay before eventually relocating to Austin to spend his remaining years near family. In his spare time, John loved OU football, golf, traveling, and his Weimaraners.

He was preceded in death by his mother Dorcas Irene Stiffler, his only-sibling sister Rose Marie Stiffler Kiger, and his beloved wife, Patricia Dianne Stiffler. He is survived by his son Eric (Paula) Stiffler of Bonita Springs, Florida, son Jim (Amy) Stiffler of Round Rock, Texas, daughter Lisa Hernandez of Austin, Texas, stepson Scott (Launa) Wilkerson of Little Elm, Texas, stepson Mark (Janna) Wilkerson of Pflugerville, Texas, stepson Brett (Stephanie) Wilkerson of Austin, Texas, and 9 grandchildren.

A visitation for John will be held Wednesday, November 8, 2023 from 5:00 PM to 7:30 PM at Cook-Walden/Capital Parks Funeral Home, 14501 North Ih-35, Pflugerville, TX 78660. A graveside service will occur Thursday, November 9, 2023 from 2:30 PM to 3:00 PM at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery, 1520 Harry Wurzbach Rd, San Antonio, TX 78209.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.cookwaldencapitalparks.com for the Stiffler family.