John G. Zaffer

John G. Zaffer, 82, of Elyria, died peacefully October 27, 2023 surrounded by loved ones.  He was born July 25, 1941 in Elyria and was a 1959 graduate of Elyria High School where he played shortstop on the high school baseball team, earning All Ohio honors.  He graduated from Ohio University in 1964, played on their baseball team, received All MAC honors and was drafted into the major leagues after graduation.  After graduation, he served in the US Navy from 1965 to 1968.  He was the owner JG Zaffer Construction Company and along with other family worked in the former Hilltop Restaurant in Elyria owned by his parents. He enjoyed working out at the gym and attending his nieces and nephews activities and sporting events, especially baseball. 

John is survived by his brother, Thomas (Carolyn) Zaffer of Elyria; niece and her adopted father, Christina (Justin) Branham of Avon; niece, Teresa (Gary) Walker of Fairview and great-nieces and nephews, Dylan, Evan and Olivia Branham and Tyler and Alivia Walker.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Gus and Rose Zaffer; brothers, Christopher and William Zaffer and a nephew, Eric Zaffer.

Friends will be received Thursday, November 9, 2023 from 10:00 am until the time of a noon service at Dicken Funeral Home & Cremation Service, 323 Middle Avenue, Elyria.  Reverend June Hardy Dorsey, Rector of St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church will officiate. Burial will be in Brookdale Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, please attend a baseball game in John’s memory or support your local youth baseball program. 

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