John Alexander Lufkin

John Alexander Lufkin, 38, of Idaho Falls, Idaho, passed away July 26, 2024, at Idaho Falls Community Hospital surrounded by his family and friends.

He was born November 30,1985, to Michael Lufkin and Mildred Smithmyer in Georgia. John later moved to Alaska where he grew up with his three brothers and parents until the age of two. John moved to Idaho Falls, Idaho, in 1987, and was raised by his grandparent's "Papa" and "Nanny" for the remainder of his childhood. He grew up with his older brother Marshall Lufkin and many of his first cousins. He was known as "John John”.

John enjoyed camping with his family, fishing, and carving things out of wood. He was always up for an adventure and loved the simple things of life. At every family gathering John would be seen with the children, laughing and playing. He was known for his gentleness and childlike spirit. He always had a crystal and a bag of candy for the children when he came to visit. John also loved spending time with his girlfriend, Tristen, and his best friend, Matt. They were inseparable during the last two years of John's life.

John is survived by his loving girlfriend, Tristen Leatham of Idaho Falls, Idaho; older brother, Marshall D. Lufkin, of Roswell, New Mexico; brother, Tracy Smithmyer of King Salmon, Alaska; and brother, Robert Smithmyer of King Salmon, Alaska.

He was preceded in death by his parents, and grandparents.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date, as well as a private ceremony at his grandparents and father’s grave site.