LaForrest John "Frosty" Bodine

LaForrest John Bodine, known to all as “Frosty,” passed away on March 12, 2026, in Great Bend, Kansas, at the age of 77. Born on September 13, 1948, at St. Rose Hospital in Great Bend to John Durrell and Myron Alta (Jarvill) Bodine, he graduated from Great Bend High School in 1967. There he excelled as a football player wearing jersey number 39 and for many years held the state javelin throwing record.

A proud veteran of the United States Army, Frosty served as an E5 Sergeant during the Vietnam War. He received the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Good Conduct Medal, and Sharpshooter badge. After his honorable discharge, he remained deeply committed to his fellow veterans, serving for many years as Commander of VFW Post 3111 and the Cooties. Whether leading ceremonies, standing honor guard at President Eisenhower’s tomb, preparing meals for events, or calling bingo numbers on Sunday nights, he was a steady and welcoming presence at the Post. In 2018, he traveled with his oldest daughter Angelique on the Honor Flight to pay tribute to his fallen brothers.

Professionally, Frosty worked for more than thirty-five years as a Journeyman Sprinkler Fitter with Local 669. He later continued serving his community as a driver for the Senior Center. In his free time, he was most at home outdoors. An Eagle Scout, he was an avid fisherman, camper, and hunter who took great pride in his garden and in keeping his lawn meticulously groomed. He cherished his dogs as part of the family. At home, he was the master griller, famous for gathering everyone around the grill to share stories and ensuring no one left hungry. He loved teaching the younger generations how to make “Gramma’s Cinnamon Rolls” and showed his deep affection through the work of his hands and the generous time he gave to those he loved.

He is survived by his wife Barbara Ann (Davis) Bodine; his children Angelique Bodine of Manhattan, Robyn Weaver (Randy) of Great Bend, Tracy Bodine of Poplar Grove, Illinois, Marisa Izaguirre of Ankeny, Iowa, and Tabitha Castaneda (Juan) of Storm Lake, Iowa; grandchildren Eric Ceniti Jr. (Emma), Jessica Carr (Jason Bitter), Malinda Creech (Connor), Britney Corp (Jonathan), Shelby Mason (Aareon), Aaliyah Castaneda, Hailey Castaneda, Audrey Weaver, Arian Castaneda, and Adalynn Castaneda; great-grandchildren Aariea, Kreadence, Dakota “Kota,” Mason, Archer, Rowan, and Amelia; siblings Norman Dale Bodine, Norvil Dean Bodine (Nancy), LaDonna Bodine Williams (Orville), and Becky Ann Bodine Adair (Mike); and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister Myrna Bodine Decker.