Jon "Juan" Neff's Obituary
Juan (Jon) Neff, 74, of Kihei, Maui, Hawaii, entered into loving eternal universe on August 24, 2023. He was born on November 11, 1948, in Elkhart Indiana, to Tom and Jean Neff.
Juan, a loving and devoted husband, Father, and Grandfather, is survived by his wife Pam, daughter Deshka, and step-daughter Tammy; grandchildren Avery, Andrew, Jacob, and Elizabeth, and
his loyal and loving cat, Sammy. He is also survived by his siblings; Michael Neff, Janice Gard, Terrance Neff, and Jennifer Johnson. He was preceded in death by his parents Tom and Jean Neff.
As a child, he loved scouting and the great outdoors. Upon graduation, his wanderlust took him to California and Tijuana, Mexico. The 70’s movement motivated him and his parents, sisters, brothers,
and cousins to pioneer to Alaska with a vision of self-sufficiency and freedom. It was there he met his wife, Pam, and they lived their dream and raised their girls until 1987 when economics guided them to relocate to Maui. What began as a temporary decision bloomed into a love for the island and desire for a rooted home with community.
Juan and his family were in service to Keolahou Congregational Hawaiian Church for the next 12 years. He served on the Board, and was an instrumental designer and contributer to the development and implementation of the church expansion and new Hale Aina. He was part of a team of talents who remodeled many buildings, among them The Johnny Baldwin House, and Kaupo Church. He joined the Carpenters Union and worked on numerous Wailea hotel projects being built in the 90’s and beyond. His love and talents for remodeling and construction rewarded him with plentiful projects well into the next century, including 14 new homes built by their owners under his supervision in Hana.
The later years were devoted to his own home remodel and property management, and winter care of his parents who snow-birded on Maui for many years. His focus to the love and care of his family were central to his purpose. His skill at the barbecue and love for cooking were his way to show care and extended much joy to his family and guests.
His battle with serious medical issues in recent years showed his courage in facing life’s challenges with a smile. Despite the pain, Juan came out a hero, always finding hope and staying strong until
the end.
Juan was a humble and great man, who never stopped dreaming. His impact will be forever felt by his family that loves him dearly.
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