LAUFFER, Willis Eldene - b. December 10, 1941 - d. September 1, 2020

[patyrn]

Willie Eldene Lauffer, sometimes known as Willie, age 78, of Wichita, Kansas, passed away on September 1, 2020 at his home.  He was born December 10, 1941 in Howard, Kansas, the son of Carl William and Elda Marie (May) Lauffer.

Eldene was raised in and received his education in Howard, graduating from Howard High School in 1959.  Immediately after graduation, he enlisted in the United States Navy.  He proudly served during the Vietnam era and was aboard the USS Ashland, USS Buchanan, USS John S. McCain, USS Lynde McCormick, USS Little Rock, USS America, and the USS Paul Revere.  After 19 years of active duty, he transferred to the Fleet Reserve in 1978 and moved his family to Kansas in 1979.  He retired from the Navy on February 1, 1989.

Eldene attended Cowley County Community College in 1982 and graduated with an Associates of Applied Sciences degree in 1985.  He worked for Boeing Aircraft Company in Wichita, Kansas in the Spars and Skins department for over 20 years, retiring in August 2001.  He was an avid gun fanatic and enjoyed the outdoors, especially hunting.

Survivors include his son, Clayton (LeAnne) Lauffer of Winfield, Kansas; his daughters, Tina (Craig) Umholtz of Burden, Kansas and Candy Lauffer of Winfield, Kansas; his brothers, Terry Lauffer of Arizona, Alan Lauffer of Wichita, Kansas, and Dwight Lauffer of California; his grandsons, Shane and Tyler Davis and Colton and Leland "L.J." Lauffer; and four great-grandchildren.  He was preceded in death by his parents.

Graveside services with Navy Committal Honors will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Monday, September 14, 2020 at the Kansas Veterans Cemetery in Winfield, Kansas.  Services are under the direction of Miles Funeral Service, 4001 E. 9th Avenue, Winfield, Kansas 67156 .  A memorial has been established for the Wounded Warrior Fund, and contributions may be made through the funeral home.

(taken from the Miles Funeral Service website)