Obituary of Jon Diffenderfer

Jon C. Diffenderfer Olean native Honolulu, HI-Jon C. Diffenderfer, formerly of Las Vegas, Nevada and an Olean native passed away Monday (January 11, 2010) in Honolulu after a battle with cancer. Born May 16, 1947 in Olean, NY he was the son of Brenton H. and Mary L. Nenno Diffenderfer. Jon was a graduate of Olean High School and then graduated first in his class from Olean Business Institute. He worked for a while for the former West State Hardware in Olean and also for Don's Restaurant and Tavern. He then attended St. Bonaventure University where he graduated Magna Cum Laude in 1972 from the School of Business. After moving to Las Vegas he began employment for the US Department of Energy. His career continued as an employee of the federal government, first for 8 years in Korea and later in the South Pacific on the Johnston Atoll as the chief budget administrator for JACADS (Johnston Atoll Chemical Agents Disposal System). He retired to Las Vegas two years ago and recently had been residing in Honolulu. He enjoyed the casinos in Las Vegas and he was an avid participant in the stock market. Surviving are 2 brothers Raymond (Jeanne) Diffenderfer of Olean and Gordon (Terri) Diffenderfer of Allegany; a longtime companion Liana Hodges of Honolulu, HI; 4 nieces Dionna (Chad) Christopher, Molly (Jeff) Billings, Kristen (Josh) Luzier and Amber Diffenderfer and 2 nephews Steve (Danielle) Diffenderfer and Michael Diffenderfer. In addition to his parents he was predeceased by 1 brother James B. Diffenderfer on December 2, 1994 and a step sister Joan O'Keefe in 1988. Friends will be received at the Casey, Halwig & Hartle Funeral Home 3128 W. State Rd. Olean on Thursday from 2-4 & 7-9pm. Funeral services will be held Friday (January 22, 2010) at 11:00am in the funeral home. Dr. Anthony L. Evans will officiate. Burial will be in St. Bonaventure Cemetery. Memorials may be made to a charity of the donor's choice.