With deep gratitude for the time we had with him, we share that John Craig Sandager, 74, passed away into God’s care on Tuesday, January 21, 2025, at his home in Sioux Falls, South Dakota.
John was born on October 14, 1950, to Victor Leon and Frances Jane (Cragoe) Sandager. He was raised on a farm near Hills, Minnesota, where he was surrounded by a large and loving family. He attended Hills-Beaver Creek (elementary through high school), St. Peters Lutheran College in Brisbane, Queensland, Australia, (senior year while Vic and Fran served as missionaries in Papua, New Guinea), Waldorf College, Texas Lutheran, Augustana (graduating with a BA in Theology), Wartburg Lutheran Seminary, and Luther Seminary, where he graduated with a Master of Divinity. In 1976 he was ordained at Bethlehem Lutheran Church.
During John’s time as a Lutheran pastor, he served at the rural parish in Montevideo, Minnesota, Trinity Lutheran in Blue Earth, Minnesota, and Mt. Calvary Lutheran Church in Colorado Springs, Colorado. He also farmed for several years with his family in Hills, Minnesota. After retiring from ministry, John spent several years as a real estate agent.
Those who knew John will remember his quick wit, generous spirit, and the way he could make anyone feel at ease with a well-timed joke or thoughtful conversation. He loved to travel, loved the symphony and the Caribbean had a special place in his heart.
John’s greatest joy was his family. Through the union of his first wife, Ruth Prentice, John is survived by his four children: Kjersti Harcum (Justin) of Lillington, North Carolina, Gaer Sandager (Tonya) of Colorado Springs, Colorado, June Burgos of Denver, Colorado, and Leif Sandager of Colorado Springs, Colorado. He cherished his seven grandchildren: Foster, Avery, and Victor Harcum; Caden and Kaiya Sandager; and Ramon and Ramar Burgos.
John also leaves behind three beloved siblings: Mark (Karen) Sandager of Sioux Falls, South Dakota, Jane (Rev. Daryl) Schubert of Brandon, South Dakota, James (Louisa) Sandager of West Des Moines, Iowa and many other beloved nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, David Sandager and foster brother Edward Hartog.
John’s legacy lives on in the love he gave, the lessons he taught, and the memories shared with those lucky enough to know him. His family finds comfort in knowing that he is at peace in God’s care, as his faith was unwavering. They will carry his spirit forward in the stories, laughter, and love he left behind.
Service details will be announced at a later date.
