Jack Stauffer passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, October 10, 2026. 

He was preceded in death by his parents, Vane and Ona Stauffer, and his sister, Sara Ann Fisher. 

Jack is survived by his loving wife, Gladys; his children, Kimberly, Jack II, and Craig (Dana) Norman; his grandsons, Zachary, Brayden, and Max; his granddaughters, Holly (Ray), Jacquelyn, and Jayme; and his great-grandson, Mattıx. 

Jack was a hardworking and independent man who embraced life with determination, curiosity, and a love of adventure. He began working at age 13 and later enjoyed a long career at the General Motors assembly plant. He also served in the Naval Air Reserve, where he repaired aircraft. Committed to lifelong learning, Jack earned his GED and later a degree in carpentry.

In 1974, Jack married Gladys, beginning more than 52 years of marriage filled with love, travel, and shared adventures. 

An accomplished craftsman and avid outdoorsman, Jack enjoyed woodworking, gardening, fishing, canoeing, and backpacking. One of his proudest achievements was building a lake house with the help of friends, a project that took years of dedication. His love of nature led him on memorable trips to the Boundary Waters and a dream journey along the Alaska-Canada Highway.

Following retirement, Jack and Gladys traveled extensively, spending time in Arizona and Florida before settling on a ranch in Texas. There, Jack enjoyed raising Boer goats and tending an abundant garden. After nine years in Texas, they returned home to Missouri. 

Jack will be remembered for his strong work ethic, adventurous spirit, resourcefulness, and deep appreciation for life's simple pleasures. His stories, accomplishments, and the memories he created will remain with those who knew and loved him. 

He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all whose lives he touched. 

Private burial and service at Mound Grove, Independence, Missouri