Jack Eugene Sauer

Jack Eugene Sauer, age 93, of Schoolcraft, MI, passed away peacefully on December 3, 2024, at home surrounded by his loving family.

Jack was born on July 8, 1931, in Kalamazoo, MI, to Otis (Red) and Mildred (Garl) Sauer. He graduated from Schoolcraft High School in 1949. After graduating from high school, he attended Michigan State College (later the University) where he received his Bachelor of Science, master’s degree, and his Doctorate in Veterinary Medicine, pursuing his childhood dream of becoming a veterinarian.

In 1960, Jack started his veterinary practice in Schoolcraft with his wife, Charlene, by his side. Dedicated to healing, his practice focused on large and small animals. He further supported his passion for animal care by volunteering as a 4-H leader and Kalamazoo County Fair veterinarian. Jack retired in 2012 and his daughter, Paula, continues his practice today.

Jack believed in the importance of education and joined the Schoolcraft Board of Education in 1966 where he served Schoolcraft students for 42 years. During this time, Jack spearheaded the building of the Schoolcraft Middle School and later Schoolcraft’s new high school. He was a charter member of the Schoolcraft Foundation. The Schoolcraft High School Media Center was named in his honor in 2007 for his dedication and service to the school district and he was honored as a Schoolcraft Hall of Fame inductee in 2019.

Jack married the love of his life, Charlene (Eggert), on June 20, 1958. They had three daughters, Mary, Karen, and Paula. They enjoyed watching them grow, supporting their various 4-H activities, especially showing horses. They also shared a love for travel. Over the years, they journeyed across the United States, Canada, and western Europe. Throughout their life, they were active members of Zion Lutheran Church.

Jack is survived by his wife, Charlene, and children, Mary Sauer-Games (Nelson Games), Karen Sauer, and Paula Sauer (Walt Tokarchick); grandchildren, Blake Games and Aiden Hursey; and several nieces and nephews. Jack was preceded in death by his parents, Otis and Mildred Sauer, and his brother, Ron Sauer. 

A funeral service will be held on Saturday, December 14, 2024, at 11:00 am at Zion Lutheran Church in Kalamazoo. Visitation will take place on Friday, December 13, from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm at Langeland Funeral Home Burial & Cremation Services, 3926 S 9th St, Kalamazoo, MI 49009, and on Saturday, December 14, from 10:00 am to 11:00 am at Zion Lutheran Church. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Schoolcraft Community Foundation, Centrica Care Navigators, or Zion Lutheran Church.

Jack will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.