Mr. John Franklin “Frank” Destefan, 84, of Waynesboro, PA passed away Sunday morning, January 18, 2026, at Mercy House, Chambersburg, PA.
Born December 24, 1941 in Dubois, PA, he was the son of the late Anthony and Vesta C. (Reiter) Destefan.
Mr. Destefan was a graduate of Dubois High School. He later earned his Associates Degree in Engineering from Penn State Dubois.
He and his wife of over 61 years, Patricia “Pat” (Miller) Destefan, were married on February 14, 1964.
Mr. Destefan worked as a mechanical engineer for 18 years at Grove Manufacturing and later 20 years at JLG Industries. He taught himself computerized automated drafting and held 2 patents at Grove Manufacturing and 1 patent at JLG Industries. He also built the smiley face that hangs on Summitview Elementary School, Waynesboro.
He was a member of the Waynesboro Fish and Game Association and The Wayne Band, Waynesboro.
Mr. Destefan enjoyed hunting, fishing and traveling with his family.
In addition to his wife, he is survived by two children, Lori Cochran (Patrick) of Waynesboro and Tony Destefan (Cindy) of Rouzerville, PA; two grandchildren, Gabby Cochran and Ben Destefan; and one great-grandson, Cooper Destefan.
Services and burial will be private at the convenience of the family.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to: Mercy House of Chambersburg, 730 Norland Ave., Chambersburg, PA 17202.
Grove-Bowersox Funeral Home, Waynesboro, PA is assisting with the arrangements.
