John F. Schander

1941 - 2014

John F. Schander

John Schander, 72, of Sioux Falls, died Thursday, December 18, 2014 at his residence following a lengthy illness.

John Frederick Schander was born December 22, 1941 at Wagner, SD to Carl and LaVelle (Martin) Schander. From the age of 11, he was raised by his aunt and uncle, Erma and Les Johnson. He grew up in Wagner where he received his education graduating from Wagner High School.

Following high school, John entered military service and served his country in the United States Marine Corps. He received his honorable discharge from the Marine's in 1964, having attained the rank of Lance Corporal. Upon his return from the service, he was united in marriage with Connie M. Rokusek on October 23, 1965 at Wagner, South Dakota. John attended Sioux Falls College where he earned a Bachelor's degree.

For 36 years, John worked for John Morrell & Co. At the time of his retirement in 1996, he was a divisional superintendent for the company. In his spare time, John enjoyed his family, reading financial publications and watching sports on TV. He particularly enjoyed his Tuesday morning "Morrell Breakfast Retirement" group.

Grateful for having shared his life are his wife, Connie, of Sioux Falls; two sons, Chad (Kim) Schander and Jason (Amy) Schander, both of Sioux Falls; seven grandsons, Jordan Schander, Dylan Schander, Mason Schander, Cody Havermann, Derek Goeden, Jackson Schander and Carter Schander. He is also survived by his sister, Carole Bakken of Austin, MN; and a brother, Larry Schander of Aiken, SC.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Carl and LaVelle Schander; his aunt and uncle, Erma and Les Johnson; and a sister, Karen Kuil.

Visitation with the family present will be from 4:00 - 7:00 pm Tuesday, December 30th at Miller Funeral Home, Main Avenue location.

www.millerfh.com