Francis Arlen Stufft

It is with deep love and sorrow that we announce the passing of Francis Arlen Stufft, who departed this life on November 29, 2025, at the age of 86. Francis was a cherished husband, father, brother, and grandfather whose presence brought warmth, steadiness, and comfort to all who knew him.

     Born on April 21, 1939, in Ainsworth, Nebraska, to Ruby Stewart and Foster Allen Stufft, Francis grew up attending Sandhills County School, where he developed the values of hard work, humility, and resilience that shaped his entire life.

     In September 1957, Francis enlisted in the United States Army, proudly serving his country during the Cold War. Stationed in Germany, he demonstrated strength, discipline, and unwavering commitment to his fellow soldiers. He completed his education while serving and was honorably discharged on August 31, 1963. His military service was a lifelong source of pride, and he continued supporting fellow veterans as a dedicated member of The American Clearwater Legion Post #267.

     Upon returning home, Francis built a life defined by dedication and integrity. Over the years, he worked as a ranch hand, a security corrections officer, and later as a truck driver for Simon Contractors, from which he retired. No matter the job, Francis earned the respect of colleagues and community members through his reliability, work ethic, and quiet strength.

     Francis had a passion for hands-on projects and took great pride in woodworking, mechanical work, tractors, and classic cars. He found joy in building, fixing, and restoring—interests that brought him a deep sense of purpose and satisfaction throughout his life.

     Francis is survived by his loving wife, Haroldene Stufft; his children, Robert Stufft and wife Ella Mae of Gladewater, TX, and Sherilee Simpson and husband Mike of Clearwater, NE; his four grandchildren, Hayley Ormezzani of Clovis, NM, Nicholas Cerny of McCook, NE, Briana Goodpasture of Jenkintown, PA, and Shila Goodpasture of Enid, OK; and his six great-grandchildren: Trinity Hanson, Zethany Cerny, Zane Cerny, Caiden Hansen, Bryce Hofer, and Rylan Goodpasture.

     He was preceded in death by his parents, Foster and Ruby Stufft of Ainsworth, NE; his sister and brother-in-law Dorthy and Orville Muenchau of Sioux Falls, IA; his brother and sister-in-law James and Nona Stufft of Loveland, CO; his brother and sister-in-law William (Al) and Roberta Stufft of Albuquerque, NM; his sister and brother-in-law Vera and Gerald Goodrich of Brewster, NE; his sister and brother-in-law Evelyn and Leland Moody of Ainsworth, NE; his brother Harold Stufft of Norfolk, NE; and his brother Lester Stufft of Ainsworth, NE.

     Francis’s life was a testament to strength, loyalty, and love. He will be remembered with deep gratitude and enduring affection for the joy, craftsmanship, and care he shared with everyone fortunate enough to know him.