VERONA - John Robert Sauer, 68, of Madison, died Monday, January 12, 2026, in his home, surrounded by his loving family.

John was born to Raymond and Jeanne (Fisher) Sauer on May 11, 1957, in La Crosse, Wis. He graduated from St. Thomas Aquinas High School in 1975 and earned a bachelor’s degree in political science and public administration from the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse in 1979. He took graduate courses in urban affairs at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee from 1979 to 1980.

At age 15, he met the love of his life, Kathryn Ann Potter, and they married on August 4, 1979, at the Cathedral of St. Joseph the Workman in La Crosse, Wis.

He began his professional career with the Legislative Bureau in Madison, Wis. and worked there for eight years before taking a position as the executive director of WASHA. When WASHA transitioned to LeadingAge in 2012, he assumed the role of president and CEO, a position he held until his retirement in April 2023. During his time at LeadingAge, he received several distinguished awards, including certificates of commendation from three different governors, the Altenheim Award, and the WHEFA Award of Excellence.

John was a pillar in the Blackhawk Church community, a professional and personal mentor to many, a self-proclaimed favorite son, a supportive brother, a loving husband, a devoted father, and the most exceptional Papa John to his four grandchildren.

When not working or volunteering, John was a passionate golfer. He cultivated many lasting friendships over rounds of golf. In recent years, he was often found being shuttled around the course by Kathy.

John was known for his strong faith, grounded perspective and special outlook when it came to life’s obstacles. When asked how he was doing, his response was always, “could not be better.”

He will be remembered for his goofy sense of humor-always one to make you laugh and maybe roll your eyes a bit. He was a humble leader, a mentor, and a hero to many. Though he would say otherwise, he was “kind of a big deal.”

John is survived by his wife, Kathryn; his children, Jacob (Lindsey) Sauer of Denver, Colo., Carolyn Sauer of Chicago, Ill., and Joel (Brittni) Sauer of Waunakee, Wis.; his grandchildren, Sophie, Jack, Charlotte and Carter; his siblings, Dave (Nancy) of Green Bay, Wis., Mary of Prescott, Wis., and Tom (Debbie) of Carlsbad, Calif.; and many special nieces, nephews and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Raymond and Jeanne Sauer; and his brother, Jim Sauer.

In retirement, he poured his heart and time into serving as chair of the board for Agape Ranch, with a Christian mission of hope and healing for children through animals, land and people. In lieu of flowers, you may honor John with a donation to Agape Ranch at https://www.agaperanchwi.com/donate.

A Celebration of Life service will be held at BLACKHAWK CHURCH, 9620 Brader Way, Middleton, at 11 a.m. on Saturday, January 31, 2026, with a reception to follow.

The family is grateful to UW Health’s Hospital at Home for making John’s last days as comfortable as possible and allowing him to be surrounded by loved ones. Special thanks to all of John’s wonderful friends and the Blackhawk Church community for their continued love and support.

Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.

Gunderson Fitchburg
Funeral & Cremation Care
2950 Chapel Valley Road
(608) 442-5002

John R Sauer

May 11, 1957 - January 12, 2026

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