John Edward Sayers, Sr.

John Edward Sayers, Sr., aged 90, of Rensselaer, Indiana, passed away on June 20, 2026. Born in Rensselaer on October 9, 1935, John lived a life marked by service and devotion.

He proudly served in the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers from 1955 to 1964. On December 17, 1961, he married Mary May Dowty, with whom he shared many cherished years until her passing on October 23, 2010.

John's career spanned roles at RCA and Schwan’s Ice Cream warehouse in Monticello, Indiana. With Schwan’s, he set up warehouses across Indiana, Michigan, and Ohio. He later dedicated twenty years to Monon Trailers.

A devoted member of Bible Baptist Church, John's love for walking led him often through the Rensselaer parks. His adventurous nature and love of travel led him to explore numerous National Parks and Monuments, and he was an avid fan of John Wayne westerns.

John's legacy is carried on by his five children: Rita Sayers, Carol (Dale) Kenning, Mary (Robert) Smith, Georgia Clapp, and John (Melanie) Sayers, Jr. He leaves behind a brother, Charles (Ellen) Sayers; a sister, Judy (Kenny) Messer; along with 13 grandchildren, 32 great-grandchildren, and two great-great-grandchildren. He is fondly remembered by special friends Scott and Dawn Platt.

Preceding him in death were his beloved wife Mary; parents Ernest and Helen Sayers; brothers Tom, Max, James, and Ernest; and sisters Mary, Susie, Alice, Rita, Betty, and Helen “Bitty.”

Family and friends are invited to a visitation on Saturday, July 18, 2026, from 10 a.m. until noon CDT at Steinke Funeral Home of Rensselaer, followed by a Celebration of Life at noon, officiated by Pastor Joseph Kenning. The family would like everyone in attendance to please wear casual attire. Burial with military honors will follow at Memory Gardens Cemetery. Following burial, a meal will be provided at First Baptist Church of DeMotte.

In lieu of flowers, contributions to the family for a memorial bench in one of the Rensselaer parks are welcomed.

Steinke Funeral Home is honored to handle the arrangements.