WLKM Radio 95.9 FM
George H. Dieffenderfer, age 94, of Constantine, died on Monday, June 26, 2023 at Borgess Hospital in Kalamazoo. He was born March 18, 1929 in Constantine, a son of John Elwood and Jennie (Hill) Dieffenderfer. George graduated from Constantine High School in 1947. He served in the US Army Air Borne division as a mechanic.
George worked for Caterpillar Inc. in Detroit and E.L. Nickell Co. in Constantine, before becoming a draftsman and designer at Kirsch Co. in Sturgis, retiring in 1994.
He was lifetime member of Messiah Lutheran Church, serving on numerous committees and activities over the years. He was a member and past Master of Siloam Lodge # 35 F& AM of Constantine, Salathiel Chapt. # 23 R.A.M., Columbia Commandery #018 K.T., Three Rivers Chapter #210 O.E.S. and Constantine American Legion Post # 223. George was active in many organizations including Kalamazoo Barber Shop Sing Society, Governor John S. Barry Society, golf and bowling leagues, and enjoyed card playing. He was an avid University of Michigan and Constantine High School football fan. George was named Constantine Citizen of the Year in 1999. He especially enjoyed spending time with his friends and staff at Meek’s Mill.
Surviving are his niece Judy (Ken) Garn, nephews Steve (Janice) Jones and Robert Jones all of Constantine, gt. nieces and nephews, Clifton (Jenny) Johansen, Jennifer (Paul) Chamberlain, David Jones and Payne Jones, gt. gt nieces and nephews, Dane Johansen, Blake Bright, and Cyrah Bright.
He was preceded in death by his parents Elwood and Jennie Dieffenderfer, step mother Grace Dieffenderfer, sister and brother in law Alma and Dale Jones.
Relatives and friends will be received Thursday July 6, 2023 from 5 to 7 pm at Eley Funeral Home in Constantine. Masonic services will follow visitation at 7 pm Thursday. Religious services will be held Friday July 7, 2023 at 11 am at Messiah Lutheran Church, Constantine with Pastor Tom Pederson officiating. Burial of Ashes will be in Constantine Township Cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be directed to Messiah Lutheran Church or Gov. John S. Barry Society.
To sign George’s online guest book and leave a message for the family visit www.eleyfuneralhomes.com.
