John Richard "J.R." Nafzinger, 95, died January 12, 2024, at Legend of Hutchinson.  He was born May 22, 1928, in Hutchinson, to John Lewis and Dorothy (Hines) Nafzinger.

J.R.  graduated from Hutchinson High School and served in the National Guard.  He then worked for the Santa Fe Railroad as a carman for 43 years.

On February 1, 1948, he married RoseMarie "Ruth" Nelson.  She died March 2, 2012, after sharing 64 years of marriage.

J.R. is survived by:  his three children, David Nafzinger (Pam) of Hutchinson, Jackie Burdick (Dave) of Valley Center, and Debi Swett-Esslinger (Galen) of Wichita; six grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren; and two great-great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by:  his parents; his wife, Ruth; and a brother, Larry Nafzinger.

Private family burial took place in Fairlawn Burial Park, Hutchinson.  Elliott Mortuary, 1219 N. Main, Hutchinson, was in charge of arrangements.