Dr. John David Redifer

John David Redifer. David. Daddy. Dave. Jahi. Pappy. Dr. Redifer. All names describing an incredible influential man who touched the lives of so many throughout his 70 years. Each chapter of his life brought him so much joy and contributed to the magnificent human he became, valuing family, education, good food, and a stiff drink.

Chapter David: His mother Mary Eleanor Pendleton “Maize” lovingly nicknamed him Davey after his father refused to name him Davey Crockett. Maize and his father, George Joseph Redifer welcomed their fifth child August 21st, 1955, in Baltimore, Maryland. As the youngest of five, David was loved so deeply by his siblings, Robin, Butch, Mary, and Ed, as well as his favorite nanny, Edna. To this day, David would carry on about the mischief he and Ed would get into as boys. As a young adult, David continued his shenanigans as a painter, a manager at a mini mart, and hitchhiking across the country, telling his “hilarious” jokes to the friends he made along the way. He enlisted in the Army in 1977 after earning his first of many degrees, this one being his undergraduate in philosophy at the University of Maryland. David took pride in his service and respected role as an infantry officer, eventually being stationed at Fort Carson in Colorado where he chose to make his permanent home. Later, this contributed to his love of torturing his family with the longest war/history movies on the planet.

Chapter Daddy/Dave: Dave had accomplished so much in such a short amount of time, but he would argue his greatest achievement was the title of Daddy. He raised two beautiful children, Justin and Erin Redifer. From his happiness coaching sports to his memorable, rambunctious family vacations to his fulfillment he had watching them grow into accomplished, loving adults, Dave’s favorite memories were with his kids.

Chapter Jahi: Fast forward 19 years after John thought he was done raising kids, he met the love of his life in 2001, Lisa Friel-Redifer who came as a package deal with three-year-old Rhiannon. He embraced this packaged deal with the most unconditional love and support. Nicknamed yet again, “Jahi”, Lisa and Rhiannon spent their time traveling every summer, fighting over who was the best at board games, spending time with his pet, Cookie and Kona, and creating wonderful, memorable traditions. Eating seafood on Christmas Eve, making his famous “root”beer floats on New Year’s Eve, and going to the Winefest every year are some of his favorites. John was the best husband and father in the whole world.

Chapter Pappy: On Halloween 2006, John became Pappy, welcoming his first granddaughter, Acacia Rose. Acacia, Georgia, Matilda, DD, and Lola were the lights of his life. His granddaughters loved every minute with their Pappy – visiting the pumpkin patch, playing in the beautiful backyard, and complaining about all the family picture taking were just a few of their favorite memories. He loved his “guy” talk after he finally got his first grandsons, Nolan and Noah.

Chapter Dr. Redifer: John poured his heart into making a difference in every chapter of his life. John started working as a Professor of Political Science at Mesa State College in 1994 after earning his PhD. Not only was he a wonderful mentor and advocate for his students, but he also earned the role of Department Head, Distinguished Faculty, and Emeriti Professor. Although he would underestimate the difference he made, many would vouch he was a brilliant educator. The immense difference Dr. Redifer made in this community was immeasurable. Throughout his journey, he had many roles including serving on the Grand Junction Planning Commission, the Colorado Water Conservation Board, the Colorado Foundation for Water Education Board, the Ute Water Board, and the Chair of the Mesa County Democratic Party.

In his final days, he was surrounded by all the people he loved. He passed out Halloween candy dressed as a dinosaur with all his grandkids and was very concerned about getting his kindle awards for reading the most chapters of his books. He passed away on November 6th, and we know he was immediately welcomed by his granddaughter, Acacia, parents, brothers, and crazy pets.

Services will be held as an open house at Cruise Control downtown on November 14th from 3-6pm. Please dress casually to celebrate Dr. Redifer’s wonderful life, as he would have enjoyed a nice party to laugh and share stories. In lieu of flowers or if you cannot attend, we know he would love donations in his name to Fisher House Foundation Inc, an organization that supports veterans, to give back to others who have served.