James "J.C." Sarver

With heavy hearts and deep love, we share the passing of James Calvin Sarver II, known to most simply as J.C. He was a man whose laughter filled rooms, whose presence brought comfort, and whose life was defined by service, joy, and connection. Though his time with us feels far too short, he will have a lasting impact on the lives he touched.

J.C., age 52, passed away on April 1, 2026, after a courageous year-long battle with cancer. He was born on October 5, 1973, in Grand Forks, North Dakota, to Mike Sarver and Mavis Sandvik. He built a life rooted in dedication to his country, his work, and the people he loved. He proudly served in the United States Army and continued his commitment to military healthcare through a career as a Department of Army civilian. His civilian career culminated as the Program Manager for the Outpatient Behavioral Health Program with the Defense Health Agency, a role he was deeply passionate about.

He lived his life with purpose and a big heart, always showing up for others in meaningful ways. Through his work, he helped move mental health programs forward for service members. He carried that same dedication into his time as a volunteer, which included serving as a Court Appointed Special Advocate, in the children's ministry at his church and as a youth football coach for the Cibolo Spartans. Each role provided another way for him to give back to his community and mentor kids.

A man of integrity and dependability, J.C. was known for his steady logic, wry humor and a laugh that could brighten any room. He was someone many turned to for guidance and perspective. A fierce advocate for what was right, he was especially dedicated to supporting patients and providers within the military medical system. To all who knew him, he was principled, loyal, generous, and always ready with a sense of humor.

He also knew how to enjoy life. Whether it was going on cruises, relaxing with a good bourbon, or watching a game, those moments mattered to him. His love for sports ran deep, especially when it came to the Steelers, the Yankees, Kentucky basketball, UND hockey, and LSU football.

His life was rich with experiences, stories, and memories. It was truly a life well lived. Though we must say goodbye for now, his laughter, love, and legacy remain woven into the lives he touched. In every shared story, every game watched, and every act of kindness carried forward, his spirit lives on.

He is survived by his loving wife of nearly 15 years, Stephanie; his children, Zach, Jess Greene and her husband Alex, and Kate Stephens; his mother, Mavis, and stepfather, Tom Winkels; and his stepbrothers, Mike Winkels and his wife Stacy, and Nathan Winkels and his wife Jessi. He is preceded in death by his father, Mike, and his stepbrother, Joe Winkels. He was a devoted husband, a proud father, a beloved son and brother, and a loyal friend to many.

A celebration of J.C.'s life will be held on May 1, 2026, at Crosspoint Church in Schertz, Texas. Family and friends are invited to gather from 12:30 PM to 1:30 PM to share memories and honor his life, with the service beginning immediately afterward. Guests are encouraged to wear their favorite sports attire, with bonus points for representing one of his teams. In lieu of flowers, the family invites donations in J.C.'s memory to the Melanoma Research Foundation.