John Saurer

John Loyed Saurer, 94, of Fergus Falls, Minn. died on January 30, 2024 at the Fergus Falls Veterans Home.

He was born in Fergus Falls on September 22, 1929 to Antone and Irene Saurer. He was raised on a farm near Friberg Dam. Because his father was paralyzed, he was responsible for much of the farm operations. He spent his free time swimming and fishing with his four brothers.

In 1949, he joined the U.S. Army and fought in the Korean War. He served on the front lines as a corporal with the First Calvary Division as a combat engineer. After returning home in 1952, he moved to South St. Paul and worked for Armor Dial meat packing plant.

In 1962, he married Georgia Benhardus. A year later, he purchased a farm near Elizabeth, where he and his children spent summer vacations. In 1972, he took a company transfer and moved his family to Fort Madison, IA. He took an early retirement in 1983, moving his family back to his parents' farm.

In 2014, he moved to Mill Street Residence and later the Fergus Falls Veterans Home.

He enjoyed traveling out West, fishing, spending time on the farm, drawing pictures, watching classic TV shows with his grandchildren, and eating Little Debbie snack cakes.

He was preceded in death by brothers James, Donald, and David.

He is survived by his brother, Tom (Lyla); his children, Mark (Magda), John Jr. (Linda), Jennifer, and Matthew (Angela), as well as 11 grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren.

Mass of Christian Burial: 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, February 7, 2024 at St. Elizabeth Catholic Church in Elizabeth, with visitation one-hour prior to the service at the church.

Clergy: Father Alan Wielinski

Interment: St. Elizabeth Cemetery, Elizabeth, MN

Arrangements provided by Olson Funeral and Cremation in Fergus Falls.

Online condolences may be sent to www.olsonfuneralhome.com