John Wasserman

Obituary of John Wasserman

John Benjamin Wasserman September 29, 1949- December 13, 2025

John died at home on Saturday surrounded by his family. He was a beloved member of the Denver community since moving to Colorado in 1979. He was a friend to many, giving generously of his warmth, humor, and honest opinions. He loved reading, traveling, biking, cooking, and hosting family and friends. His integrity, loyalty, and independence were core elements of his being which he was determined to maintain throughout his most recent health challenges.

He was born to Evelyn and Helman Wasserman in St. Louis, Missouri. He was a Cardinals baseball fan his whole life. He attended Colorado College and then went on to study law at St. Louis University and clerk on the Missouri Supreme Court. John met Esther in 1977 when he moved back to St. Louis to begin his career as a corporate attorney. They began a five year courtship that led to an August 1982 marriage in Denver. They have been very happily married 43 years and have two children, Emily and Danny, and two granddaughters. John loved his family dearly.

John generously gave back to his community through sharing his legal expertise and calm, steady leadership. He guided Stanley British Primary School through the acquisition of the Lowery campus from the US Air Force. He served as chairperson of B'nai Havurah during a critical transition period. He was a board member of Breakthrough at Kent Denver for many years. Most recently, he applied his talents to helping guide Developmental FX and Urban Peak through times of growth and relocation.

John treasured his many summers at Camp Nebagamon and the friendships forged in the North Woods. At Nebagamon John was a camper and a wilderness tripping counselor, taking campers on multi-day canoe trips through the Boundary Waters. Later in life he served as chair of the Camp Nebagamon Scholarship program that enabled children of limited resources to attend Nebagamon. He went on to help establish the Camp Nebagamon Foundation that took over operation of the camp as a non-profit.

John is survived by his wife Esther Starrels and their children Emily Wasserman (Cameron Wiggin) and Danny (Daniel Benjamin) Wasserman and granddaughters Tegan and Zoe Wiggin. John is also survived by his middle sister Mary (Wasserman) Weinstock and brother-in-law Richard Weinstock. His older sister Ann (Wasserman) Solomon and brother-in-law Michael Solomon preceded him in death. Many cousins, nieces, and nephews also mourn his passing.

Funeral services will be at 11:00am on Monday December 15 at Feldman Mortuary, followed by burial at Emanuel Cemetery. A livestream is available on Feldman Mortuary's YouTube channel.

In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory may be made to: Camp Nebagamon "KTFB Campaign", Urban Peak, Developmental FX, and B'nai Havurah.