John Joseph Huffman, age 78, of Independence, Missouri passed away on Thursday, February 9, 2023.

He was born January 25, 1945 in Kansas City, Mo to James and Winona (Horn) Huffman. He was raised and educated in Independence, attending William Chrisman High School in and graduating in1963.

After high school John enlisted in the US Army where he became a Green Beret serving in Special Forces during the Vietnam War.

After his service he attended the University of Missouri attain a bachelor’s degree in history and then a Master’s degree.

John then gained employment with City of Kansas City working as specialist in Human Resources. After 20 years he became curator of the Mark Twain Museum for 16 years. He also worked at the DC Boothe Museum in Spearfish, South Dakota.

He retired in 2015 and returned to Independence.

Preceded in death by his parents, brother Jimmy and a sister.

He is survived by sisters; Toni Hanson of Tacoma, WA and Diane Watrous, Port Orchard WA, multiple nieces and nephews, cousins and friends. Best friend, Sandra Dragivich.

A funeral service for John will be held Saturday, February 18, 2023 from 11:30 AM to 12:00 PM at Firs Presbyterian Church, 100 N Pleasant, Independence, MO 64050. A visitation will occur Saturday, February 18, 2023 from 12:00 PM to 12:45 PM at First Presbyterian Church, 100 N Pleasant, Independence, MO 64050. A committal service/military honors will occur Saturday, February 18, 2023 from 1:00 PM to 1:30 PM at Parklawn Cemetery, 8251 Hillcrest Rd, Kansas City, MO 64138.