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John Saelens Obituary

John A. Saelens passed away at the age of 73 on September 13, 2009. He was born on January 22, 1936, in Portland, Ore. John was a giving and loving person who was dedicated to helping others with compassion and love. John loved music and opera so much he held season tickets to the Los Angeles Philharmonic and the Los Angeles Opera for the last 20 years. He was preceded in death by his parents, Fred and Irene (Krieger) Saelens; and his sister, Marianne. Left to mourn his passing is son, Michael Saelens and wife, Janet of Yukon, Okla.; daughter Christy Henderer and husband, Bruce of Livermore, Calif.; three grandchildren, Jeff (USAF), Rebecca, and Ethan; and his life partner, Milton Gonsalves. Also missing him greatly are his four-legged companions, Sophie, Leroy, Dolly and Betty Boop. A Memorial Service will be held Friday September 18, 2009, at 2:00 PM, at the Presbyterian Church on Chuperosa Lane in Cathedral City, CA. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests a donation be made to the Desert AIDS Project.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Desert Sun from Sep. 18 to Sep. 23, 2009.

Memories and Condolences
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6 Entries

RAYMOND CARANO

September 21, 2009

MILTON.....I WAS VERY SORRY TO HEAR
JOHN HAD PASSED . PLEASE ACCEPT MY SYMPATHY ON YOUR SAD LOSS.
LOVE , RAYMOND CARANO.

Deborah Kent

September 19, 2009

I worked with John for a number of years and found him to be an absolutely delightful person. He was full of life and laughter and made any occasion fun. I am sure his loved ones will miss him terribly. I send my heartfelt condolences to each of you.

September 19, 2009

Milton so sorry to hear about Uncle John. Been trying to call for days now. If you could get ahold of one of us . It would be appreciated. Wendy

Jane Turner

September 19, 2009

I worked with John off and on for a number of years. He was a wonderful teacher and a delightful person. My condolences to his loved ones.

Clay Pettet

September 18, 2009

John and I had known each other for about 25 years. We worked together and became very good friends. I wish that I had spent more time with John and Milton, but we all get caught up in our own lives. I will always remember John as a very kind, caring and compassionate person. He cared deeply for Milton and all four legged friends. God be with you John and I will always remember you as a true loving friend. Clay Pettet

richard cameron

September 18, 2009

John is in Good Hands, of course, so the condolence is directed to the living, and most particularly Milton Gonsalves. The years together are a blessing, and if we can it would be best to focus on what we have gained, and to live in the present. Richard Cameron

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