John Arthur Beilfuss, known to his family and friends as “Jack,” passed away comfortably on October 31, 2024 at the age of 88, just three and a half weeks after the passing of his beloved wife, Barbara (Barb). Their remarkable journey together spanned over 64 years, beginning and ending like a true love story.

Born in December 1935 to Robert Sr. and Dorothy Beilfuss, Jack spent his early years in Chicago IL and Burlington IA before the family settled in Park Forest, IL.   It was there that Jack and his parents, along with his brothers Robert Jr. (Bob) and Richard (Dick), formed a lasting friendship with the Kainz family—Ed, Ann, Barb, and Bonnie.   The two families became good friends –Barb’s father Ed engaging with the boys for Scouting and other activities, while Ann helped Dorothy keep the high-spirited boys in line.  Barb often reminisced about her friends watching “that good-looking Jack” from her front porch, unaware of the beautiful future that awaited her with Jack.

After the Kainz family moved away, Jack completed junior college before embarking on a business career and enlisting in the Army. He enlisted in 1957 and worked his rank to E6 SSGT by September of 1961, proudly supporting his country through the Berlin Crisis.  Although very proud of his military service, Jack rarely wanted the attention of being a veteran as he felt so many others sacrificed much more than he did.  

Just as fate often steps in, Barb and Jack crossed paths again.  They had stayed friends over the miles and Jack had the opportunity to visit while traveling between his Army post and his parents. Barb would set Jack and his friends up with blind dates for parties and as the story goes, one such night the match was less than stellar for Jack.  He ended up spending the evening with Barb, beginning a lifetime of love and happiness for both.  

Jack and Barb married in January 1960, embarking on a life filled with adventure. Jack worked for Florsheim Shoes, Transilwrap Company, and Envirotech Extrusions, while the couple made their homes in Skokie, IL; Raytown, MO; Richardson, TX; and Richmond, IN. In 2016, they made the move “back home” to John Knox Village in Lee’s Summit, MO.   Jack and Barb had many church families along the way, where they were very active and served as Deacons, mentors and many other services in each. Blue Ridge Presbyterian in Raytown graced them with lifelong friends, many of whom joined them for retirement at John Knox Village.

Although a hard worker, Jack found time for his children and their activities.  Boy Scouts, Indian Guides/Indian Princesses, sports, and camping trips across the country were always worked into his schedule. When he had to travel extensively for his career, Barb and the kids would sometimes pack up for an adventure wherever dad was. 

Jack had a unique gift for connecting with others, engaging in conversations that turned acquaintances into lifelong friends. His sparkling personality and crystal blue eyes endeared him to many, earning him playful teasing from his children that he could have been the mayor of a small town. Jack was always doing something for the better of his communities wherever he lived.  As a proud member of Kiwanis, Jack supported many fundraising efforts in his local towns.  At the end of a week, he could be found delivering lunches for the local school age kids that needed a meal over the weekend.  Jack became an instant leader of the “Shamrockers” neighborhood group, the golfing organization, and a host of other activities at John Knox Village, including the introduction of the infamous ‘Manhattan Night’ with his best friend Paul. 

While countless words could be written about Jack’s contributions to the world, none could capture the depth of his love for his family and his unwavering faith in Christ. He will be profoundly missed by all who knew him.

Jack is survived by his four children: John Beilfuss (Majing), Ed Beilfuss (Ronni), Julie Beilfuss, and David Beilfuss (Holly), as well as his four cherished grandchildren: Ben, Grey, Andy, and Brian. He is also survived by his brother Bob (Carol) and their children Cindy, Cheryl, and Robert III.

The family would like to express their deepest gratitude to Steve and Susan McQueen of Village Church for their unwavering love and support throughout their friendship, and especially during this difficult time. Your kindness has meant the world to us. We are also profoundly thankful for the dedicated staff at Village Care Center and Village Hospice, whose compassionate care provided Jack with comfort and dignity. A special thank you to Cheryl and the many other wonderful neighbors and friends who took the time to spend time with Jack in his final days. Your presence brought him so much joy and ensured that he was never alone. Both Jack and Barb were truly blessed to have such a caring community surrounding them.

A gathering of family and friends will be held from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM (with Minister Speaking at 6:00 PM) on December 7^th at John Knox Village to celebrate the lives of Jack and his beautiful wife, Barb. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Village Church, 1001 NW Chipman Rd #221, Lee’s Summit MO 64081.