John David Sanders

John David Sanders, 85, peacefully passed away Monday, March 10, 2025, surrounded by his loving family in Delaware, OH. He was born October 23, 1939, in Celina, OH, to Charles and Mary (McGreevey) Sanders. They both preceded him in death. He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Arlene (Teaford) Sanders of St. Augustine, FL. They were united in marriage on February 17, 1962.

John is also survived by sons, David (Jennifer) Sanders of Columbus, OH, Todd (Kay) Sanders of Dublin, OH, Kelly Sanders of Delphos, OH; daughter, Jeni (Mike) Kennedy of Delaware, OH; grandchildren: Cortney, Erika, Derek, Casey, and Anthony (A.J.); great-grandchildren: Hudson and Hailey; step-grandchildren: Sherrie, Michael, Robert, and Tessea; step-great-grandchildren: Landen, Luke, Nick, Robert, Mason, Michael, Jade, and Carter; sisters, Joanne Katonak of Columbus, OH and June Sanders of Gainesville, FL; and sister-in-law, Janet Sanders of Columbus, OH; and many nieces and nephews.  

John was preceded in death by his brother, Charles “Butch” Sanders.

John was a member of the St. Peter Lutheran Church in Delphos, the Memorial Lutheran Church in St. Augustine, FL, and a Lifelong Member of the Hope Lodge #214. He proudly served the public at various stores in both Delphos and St. Augustine including 12 years at Bonded Oil Station in Delphos and 20 years at Lil Champ in St. Augustine, FL. He was a faithful servant in Lay church positions. John was a dedicated fan of the Ohio State Buckeyes, NASCAR, and the Florida Gators. John is remembered for his expansive heart, always ready for friendship and conversation, surrounded by the love of those who knew him at Memorial. Then in his last years, he was protected by Arlene’s strong and patient love. The hearts of all those who knew him at Memorial go out to John’s family. He never met a stranger. John’s gift of friendliness meant he always got stopped to talk wherever he went. He led his life with a big heart and helping hands. John was a devoted husband and loving father, grandfather, and great-grandfather.  

Funeral Services will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, March 15, 2025, at St. Peter Lutheran Church. Burial will follow in Walnut Grove Cemetery. Visitation will be held from 9-11 a.m. on Saturday, March 15, 2025, at Harter & Schier Funeral Home.  

Memorial contributions may be made to St. Peter Lutheran Church or Ohio Living Hospice.