Justin Hafla

Casey Justin Hafla passed away peacefully while wrapped in his loving mother's arms on December 23, 2016. Justin was born in Idaho Falls, Idaho, to Casey and Joselyn Hafla on August 10, 1990. He attended school at Osgood Elementary, Eagle Rock Jr. High, and Skyline High School where he graduated in 2008. He went on to attend Boise State University from fall 2008 to spring 2009. However, Justin quickly realized his dream was to become a pilot. He then moved to Logan, Utah, the fall of 2009, to continue his studies at Utah State University. During this time, he was a member of a Pi Kappa Alpha Fraternity. This experience provided unforgettable memories and life-long friendships with his "Brothers." For leisure, Justin's favorite activity was fly-fishing. He could catch fish in almost any situation, and always looked forward to out-fishing his dad. Some of his favorite areas to fish were the South Fork, Henry's, and "Notellum Creek." Moreover, Justin loved hunting and adventuring with his younger brother, Cade. He cherished the close friendship that they maintained. Justin never missed an opportunity to spend quality time with his family. Justin began dating the love of his life, Taylor Hanzalik, in October of 2011. They simply adored one another and could hardly be separated. Together they studied abroad in the Netherlands, making weekend trips all over Europe. When not overseas, you could find them fishing, hiking, or simply enjoying each other's company. They are truly soulmates. Additionally, Justin was an accomplished Flight and Ground School Instructor at Utah State. He gained a vast variety of skills, knowledge, and more valuable friendships while in these positions. After completing that darn calculus class, Justin graduated from Utah State in May of 2014. He earned two Bachelor's degrees; one in Aviation Technology and the other in Business.

Justin continued his exciting career in aviation by working as a bush pilot in Alaska. When off-duty, himself and Taylor lived near San Luis Obispo, California. They stayed with her family and he treasured the opportunity to grow close to them. This area provided another opportunity to fly. He began working again as a flight instructor; enjoying many gorgeous flights over the sunny-California coast line. Most recently, Justin was offered one of his dream-jobs of flying a Pilatus-PC12 for Boutique Air. He began this next quest in Colorado in February of 2016. He was close to upgrading to Captain at the time of his diagnosis. Regardless of his location or health, Justin made it a priority to maintain meaningful relationships with friends and family. He never lost his positive attitude, charisma, or quick-wit. These are just a few of the qualities that make Justin loved by so many. To return home to Idaho Falls, Justin took his final flight. Surrounded by his wonderful family, Justin proposed to Taylor as they soared over the Grand Teton Mountains. Without a doubt, she accepted his proposal. It was a beautiful occasion for all. Justin is survived by his parents Casey Hafla and Joselyn Martincic Hafla. He is also survived by his younger brother Cade Hafla. On his Father's side, Justin is survived by aunts and uncles: Tony (Roxanne) Hafla, Jolynne (Alan) Cavener, Lorrie Westfall, Kelly (Russell) Kagehiro. Also surviving is his paternal grandmother Betty Hafla. On his mother's side, Justin is survived by aunts and uncles: Jackie (Ted) Harder, Joe (LuAnn) Martincic, Dan Martincic, and Alex (Leah) Reed. His surviving maternal grandparents are Joseph and Jude Martincic. Justin is also survived by many other loving aunts, uncles, cousins, and his only nephew, Caden. He was preceded in death by his maternal grandmother Arlene Olson and his paternal grandfather Richard Hafla. In lieu of flowers, please donate to your local animal shelter on Justin's behalf. Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m. Thursday, December 29, 2016, at Wood Funeral Home East Side, 963 South Ammon Road. The family will visit with friends Wednesday evening from 6:00-8:00 p.m. and one hour prior to services, both times at Wood East Side. Burial will be in New Sweden Cemetery.