John Leroy Altaffer

John L. Altaffer, 66, of Toledo, Ohio, passed away peacefully on Friday, February 21, 2026, at Mercy St. Vincent Medical Center.

John was born on November 6, 1959, in Toledo, Ohio. He proudly served in the United States Air Force beginning in 1982. During his military career, he was stationed at Tinker Air Force Base, Elmendorf Air Force Base, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, and retired from Edwards Air Force Base in 1995.

Following his retirement from the Air Force, John worked in telecommunications and network installation. He was an avid fisherman and especially enjoyed fishing in Alaska during his military service there. He was also an enthusiastic gamer, with a particular love for online RPG's and Dungeons & Dragons.

John married Teresa Shiffler on February 6, 1982. He was an active member of St. Mark Lutheran Church, where he generously volunteered his time with the Stephen Ministries Outreach program. He was also a lifetime member at Point Place AMVETS Post 222.

John will be remembered for his dedication to his country, his love of family and faith, and the many friendships he built throughout his life.

John is survived by his children, Amanda (Randy) Arrington, Alexandra (Eric Bortkowiak) Altaffer, and Adrianna (Eric) Schroeder; grandchildren, Devin, Tyler, David, Christopher, Jasmine, Jacob, Boyd, Brian, and Isaac; mother, Sallie Pickering; siblings, Sue Ellen (Larry) Gifford, Donald "Phred" (Lynn) Altaffer Jr., and Vicki (Matt) Dunn; along with many nieces, nephews, loving family members and friends. He was preceded in death by his father Donald Pickering; wife, Theresa; and brothers, Richard and Robert.

The family will receive friends at Sujkowski Walker Funeral Home, 830 Lime City Road, Rossford, Wednesday, February 25, 2026, from 3:00 pm - 7:00 pm. Funeral services 11:00 am Thursday, February 26, 2026, at St. Mark Lutheran Church, 611 Woodville Road, Toledo, where the family will receive friends at 10:30 am. Expressions of sympathy may be directed to St. Mark Lutheran Church.