John "Jack" Melvin Czifro

John “Jack” Melvin Czifro, aged 77, of Great Falls, passed away on Thursday, November 16, 2023. Jack was born on December 16, 1945, in Great Falls, Montana to George and Mildred (Hovland) Czifro.

Jack met the love of his life, Sanna Budeski, in 1974 while working at the Frey’s Union 76 gas station across from Kentucky Fried Chicken where she worked. They married on September 6, 1975, and had their daughter, Jessica, in 1980.

He was a “Jack” of all trades, working at the meat company, bartending, gas station attendant, and a teamster for the Cascade County Road Department where he worked for over 30 years, finally retiring in December 2003. He turned his passion for woodworking into a successful business. “Oak by Jack” was cherished by many who were fortunate enough to receive a piece of his work. Always trying to stay busy, he dealt poker in Great Falls and Lincoln and picked balls at Hickory Swings. Most recently, he loved helping his daughter with her business, always willing to drop everything to get her caught up.

Jack’s favorite interests were fishing and boating on Holter with his wife and spending time at their property in Craig, MT, hunting in Lincoln with his good friend Kenny, playing pool, great times at Hickory Swings golfing, and meeting friends for coffee. Jack and Sanna loved to travel and were able to see some amazing places. He was a huge Griz fan and would be so happy that they won the Brawl of the Wild this year. Jack’s three grandchildren were his pride and joy. Some of their favorite times were camping, boating, and digging for sapphires and crystals. He was the life of the party, always making jokes and trying to make people laugh. He will be greatly missed by many.

Jack is survived by his wife, Sanna; daughter, Jessica (Ben) Lopuch; grandchildren, Taylee, Logan, and Camilla; brothers, Henry (Carrie) and Don; sister, Mary; many nieces and nephews; and family and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents and siblings, George, Patricia, and Bill.

A celebration of life will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Friday, November 24, 2023, at the Black Eagle Community Center. Any donations will go towards a memorial bench at one of his favorite places, Hickory Swings.