Obituary of John Kniffin

John R. Kniffin, Sr., beloved father and grandfather was born November 22, 1940, to Warren and Peggy Kniffin. After a valiant fight, he passed away in Tucson on August 15, 2012. He is survived by three children; Jonsi Lapsansky, John R. Kniffin, Jr. and Jessica Whetman, and two grandchildren, Clint and Wren Lapsansky. John Kniffin was many things to the numerous people who loved him. He was a wonderfully caring and gentle man who cherished his children, grandchildren, family, and life-long friends. He was a man who loved deeply; he could always be counted on to lend support and words of encouragement when you needed them most. He was a strong man who was proud of his family, his country, and his work. He was a master craftsman whose hands helped build the city of Tucson alongside his father, Warren Kniffin. He was an artist who did stunning tile work and never left a job unless it was perfect. He was always willing to help family and friends; in fact, many of us probably have something beautiful to remember him by in our own homes. John was a great fisherman who could often be found at the lake after work, line in hand with his dog at his side. He was a history buff who loved reading; he could detail every move that was made at the shootout at the O.K. Corral. He loved Arizona and spent time going on drives, treasure hunting, collecting rocks, and looking for wildlife. John was good natured and had a great sense of humor. He enjoyed the little things in life like ice cream, Elvis, baseball games, cream soda, a good World War II book, and the achievements of his children and grandchildren. John Kniffin was many things to many people, but most of all he was truly loved. Words cannot express how much he will be missed. He will live on in all of us in our hearts, our memories, and our thoughts.