John Loftis, 78

John Duane Loftis, 78, passed away Tuesday, Aug. 22, 2023, in Sandpoint, Idaho.

Private family services will be held at a later date.

John was born Jan. 6, 1945, in Omaha, Neb., to Joseph and Ethel Loftis. He grew up and attended schools in San Francisco. John served his country in the United States Navy.

John married Stella Gurule in 1970, and they later divorced. He then married Linda McGowan on Aug. 30, 1974, in Daly City, Calif. He worked as a welder in the Bay Area. John retired in 2006 and moved to Sandpoint, Idaho.

He was a member of the Sandpoint Lion’s Club, where he enjoyed helping with the community Easter egg hunt, and selling raffle tickets for the Fourth of July festivities. He also enjoyed traveling, fishing, woodworking, shooting, music, watching movies, and supporting his grandchildren’s activities and sports.

He is survived by his wife, Linda Loftis of Sagle, Idaho; four children, Jodie (Charles) Newsom, David Schardt, and John and Diane Loftis; six grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers, Ed and Joe Loftis; and a sister, Shirley Welch.

Lakeview Funeral Home in Sandpoint is handling the arrangements. Please visit John’s online memorial at www.lakeviewfuneral.com and sign his guest book.