John A. Griffin (Allan) passed away at Mountain View Regional Hospital surrounded by his family on July 18, 2016 of natural causes.
Allan was born February 20, 1932 in Casper Wyoming to Dave and Doris Griffin. He attended school in Midwest Wyoming, where he graduated from Midwest High School in 1950, where he was also named Mr. Midwest the same year. During his high school years, Allan participated in football, track and field, tennis, and basketball. Allan earned his athletic letter in all sports he participated in, but was a standout athlete in basketball. Allan remained a Midwest Oiler supporter for the remainder of his life.
Allan married Janice Marie Tighe and they had two children together, John David and Tina Laree Griffin. Allan and Janice later divorced, but remained good friends. Allan later married Colleen Conyers, and they later divorced. Allan had a special relationship with Peggy Marie Reychler until her death in 2011.
Allan was the owner of Griffin Backhoe Service located in Midwest Wyoming for 30 years until the time of his death. Allan's work history included working for Pan American Oil Company for 18 years, while running an oil derrick demolition business on the side. Allan was also part owner of a Bandag Tire store. Allan served on the Midwest Town Council, was elected Mayor, and was also a member of the Midwest School Board.
Allan spent his entire 84 years in Midwest Wyoming, where he was part of the community fabric. Allan was quick to help those less fortunate, especially the children. Allan was known to provide clothing and other essentials to children he observed while cruising the streets of Midwest and Edgerton, which happened on a daily basis. Allan enjoyed attending all Midwest High School athletic functions and programs, which he supported throughout his life. Allan made it a point to recognize all Midwest High School athletes by purchasing a meal for them at the local burger joint every year, which made Allan a part of all their lives. Allan was known for maintaining beautiful flower gardens, which were enjoyed by the entire Midwest/Edgerton community. Allan enjoyed the simple things like watching the sunset, or just shooting the bull with his friends at the local coffee shop. The City of Edgerton honored Allan by developing an area for the community to enjoy, which they aptly named Griffin Park. Allan was a devoted Christian and supported several local churches. Allan's favorite quote was "Love is contagious, let's start an epidemic." Allan will be missed by the entire Midwest/Edgerton community.
Allan is survived by his children John David (Susan) and Tina Laree Friesen (Fritz), grandchildren Skyler Griffin, Sasha Griffin, MaKayla Frickey, Dylan Frickey, Candice Mortenson, Jacquelyn Friesen, and five great grandchildren. Allan and his children consider Guy, Paula, Shawna, Hannah, and Will Chapman as part of their family.
A celebration of Allan's life will be held at Griffin Park in Edgerton Wyoming the weekend of August 26th, beginning with the Midwest Oilers football game and life celebration the following afternoon beginning at 4:00 p.m. Allan requested in place of flowers, a donation can be made to Midwest High School.