Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
John Stenger Obituary
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for John Stenger
Jim Eisenhart
November 11, 2020
Every time I need to cheer-up a somber day, I think of John selling me the first system I bought from him. It was the beginning of many shared miles and smiles.
Alice Lubsch
November 21, 2010
Just looking at his picture makes me smile. I went to Epiphany School with John and I worked at the Ivanhoe Show with him. He was a "great" guy. If I didn't have a way home, he would walk with me. He took me to my senior prom when my date had to cancel out. So many wonderful memories of his caring have surfaced for me this past week.
I will keep his family and friends in my prayers and hope that their memories and faith will get them through this sad time.
Mike & Pat Hagenhoff
November 20, 2010
Cathy and Family, deeply saddened over the news of John's passing. Have known John for too many years to count as we spent the formative years of our business careers in the trenches at Xerox. Had a lot of laughs and a lot of memories of my cigar chewing friend John. John was always one to be willing to help others and over the years he certainly was generous with his time and success. Our hearts and prayers go out to you and the family during your time of loss.
November 20, 2010
I am sincerely saddened by John's death. I grew up across the street from him on Smiley Avenue. I have wonderful memories of him as a "kid". I haven't seen him since but he reached out to me 25 years ago when I started out on a new life journey and offered assistance which was a surprise but very much appreciated. My deepest sympathy to all of his family. Dot Cox, Englewood, NJ
Thomas Giger
November 19, 2010
You have made a difference in the lives of myself and other past co-workers.
Peter Schrappen
November 19, 2010
John,
I struggle to think of someone who has had more of an impact in my life. You have known me and looked out for me for my entire 34 years.
You were always the guest of honor at our house. Whenever you and Catherine would come for dinner, you can bet that my dad would make his most special meal, my mom would make sure the house was extra clean. There was certainly a buzz knowing that we wouldn't be entertaining you but that you would be entertaining us.
Life got even better. You welcomed me to help on the farm. I'm still not sure how to describe that summer or how helpful I was. Then you and Catherine came out for my wedding. That was very humbling--to know that you spent a vacation day for me.
I can tell you that my family will miss you terribly. Your brutal honesty, your unsolicited (but spot-on) feedback and your incredible generosity are just three gifts that you gave us throughout the years. I loved having you in my corner and would often brag to my friends that you wanted me to work for you.
Much love and sadness,
Peter Schrappen and family
Rob Schainker
November 19, 2010
Dear Catherine and the entire Stenger Family,
While the loss of John comes as a shock, I know in my heart that his role in the next world is larger than anyone can imagine. He was sharpening his skills in this world as preparation for his next accomplishment. John was a truely unique individual and a man that I was fortunate to have known. He always brightened the room when he entered and will continue to do so just on a grander scale. I am proud to have been able to call him my friend.
Rich Pisani
November 19, 2010
To: John Stenger
John, I am still shocked at the news of your passing!
Jim Smith, our former Xerox friend and owner/manager of the Chase Hotel, told me of your passing two days ago. You and I both attended Bishop DuBourg High School, but at different times...I didn't meet you at that point in our lives, but knew of you. Then, I first met you at Xerox in 1971 as a sales rep. When i worked with you at Xerox as a peer and Sales Manager I looked up to your talent and ability as a 'leader'...you were 'tough, but always fair' with everyone.
You and I have run into each other over the years and had good, but brief, social chats...normally in a group setting. Your generous offer to financially help Xerox alums that were 'in need' blew me away...what a great guy and what a generous offer you made.
What's even more amazing is that we recently ran into each other at Walgreens on the Parkway on a rainy summer evening and actually sat down in their 'surplus lawn chairs for sale' (how appropriate) and really had a great conversation. That's the only real '1 on 1' talk I ever had with you since I met you in 1971. You insisted we talk, were in a great mood, very talkative, highly energized, laughed alot (your crazy laugh mad me laugh) and said "let's get together for lunch over the holidays", which I was looking forward to doing. Unknowingly and unbelievably, our very first real talk turned out to be our very last...what a shame we let so many years go by before enjoying each others company. However, I'm grateful we took that half hour to get to know each other better.
All who knew you will miss you. I'll pray for your family and friends you now leave behind. I know you're in a better place now, but I'm sure you'll figure out a way to become God's 'General Manager of Cloud # 9' during your first interview with Him. ..haha! Knowing you have a creative and entrepreneurial side to your personality, you'll most likely figure out a way to buy surplus, used clouds at His auctions, sell them to the angels at a profit and then donate the proceeds to a charity in heaven...LOL!
On a serious note, you were a very good man and a great friend and mentor to many...I wish you the best in your next life. And by the way, I believe heaven is a 'NO SMOKING' zone!
Good luck and good selling, my friend.
Rich Pisani
314-952-2640
PS: If spiritually possible, let us know how "Life after Life" is, ok?
Charlie Stenger
November 18, 2010
Saying that Uncle John had a "way" about him is the largest understatement of the year. "Grabbing the bull by the horns" was not something he would say, but something he would tell you to do...and you would do it. He is the type of person that even if you didn't agree with, you would appreciate his commitment, dedication, and passion. I value my Godfather's commitment to his wife, kids, and his church. A tear joins the corner of my eye when thinking I won't get to experience his presence and quips. A feeling of peace broaches when I remember all the impactful lessons he shared with all of us. "Do you want a cigar?" was his way of accepting you into his heart; and all cherished his acceptance. God Bless.
Joseph Slay
November 18, 2010
Dear Katherine, Christine, John, and Laura, and the entire family it is with a tremendous amount of sadness that I feel that John has passed on to which I hope is a new life. I really believe that a man such as John is not the type to just go away, and to never be heard from again. All of us that truly cherished his friendship will always and forever have our memories of our time with John in a pretty special place with in ourselves that we keep of people, places and the things we we just loved.
I won't attempt to make John out in death larger than he was in life but the facts are Johns life was quite large because he touched so many people thru the things he did for others.I saw first hand how gratifying it was to him that he was able to support what ever the need was. After doing so he would say, " Joey, little Johnny Stenger from South St. Louis did pretty good today, don't you think"? I do John, and thank you for 40 plus years of being one of the best friends a guy could have. Thanks for all of your help at the worst time in my life after my Dad was killed. I will never forget you.God bless you and your family.
Dan Batson
November 17, 2010
I remember the first time I saw John at an auction, he was chewing a cigar! Larger than life, he knew everyone, everywhere we went. I remember riding to Atlanta, Baton Rouge & anywhere else he wanted me to go with him. He taught me about business and friendship. He was a great friend and mentor. My prayers go out to Catherine & his family. Rest in peace John, I will miss you.
Ron Abeles
November 17, 2010
I have known John for the past 31 years as a genuinely wonderful, generous, smart humerous and passionate man. He would always help his fellow man whenever he could. I am deeply saddened at his passing. A real Mensch!
Jim & Sharon Eisenhart
November 17, 2010
Cathy:
It takes a character with character to achieve all the influence he's had on so many lives, including mine. I will always remember John barging into my office many years ago, unannounced on a Saturday morning; and walking out with an order for a new phone system two hours later.
In addition to his tireless dedication of helping less fortunate people, John was the consumate salesman. Somehow Heaven is being re-equipped right now.
As we celebrate John's new Life, we will always remember his big smile, and keep you and your family in our prayers.
November 17, 2010
November 17, 2010
I got to know John as a fierce competitor in the telecommunications business. John and I became friends during the process of Capital Communications buying GBS Communications. I would like to pass along my sympathy to John's entire family. I know he will be missed and you will be in my prayers.
Bill McCormick and Jackie McCormick
November 17, 2010
Cathy and family, We are so sad to hear of John's passing. He was a truly great man and a loving friend. Our prayers are with you. Love & Peace Tom & Kathy Massimino
Patricia McGrady
November 17, 2010
I was Dean of Women at Quincy College when John was a student in the 60s. He would regularly drop by my office, and entertain me with his charm and humor. And I was so pleased that he has kept in touch in the ensuing years. He is probably already up there entertaining the heavens! I send my sincere sympathy to Cathy and their kids and grandkids, as well as to his sister, Laura, who was also a student there in my day. Rest in peace, John.
Mike Statter
November 17, 2010
I only met John once, very recently, and I will never forget him. A genuine, nice person who seemed to have the ability to see behind your eyes and into your heart. His passing is a shock. Our family will keep John and his family in our prayers.
Maureen Herrmann
November 17, 2010
Our hearts are saddened with the loss of John. His "spirit" and passion for the Marian mission is deeply appreicated and will never be forgotton.
Joel Platke
November 17, 2010
My heart goes out to the Stenger family for their loss. John Stenger was a true character that blessed my life. Anyone that knew him, knew that his heart was as large as the cigar that he often chewed on. This world has lost a rare smile of a man who cared deeply about his family and friends. John Stenger was a "Mench."
Showing 1 - 19 of 19 results
Make a Donation
in John Stenger's name
Memorial Events
for John Stenger
How to support John's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor John Stenger's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
