John Dewey Salyers
John Dewey Salyers, Age 72, entered into the arms of Jesus, surrounded by his beloved wife and daughters on Tuesday, July 7, 2020. John was born in Independence, KY on November 24, 1947. He grew up in Grant County and joined the US Army Corps of Engineers at the age of 18. In 1969, after serving a year long tour in Vietnam he met his beautiful wife-to-be Connie Otten. They quickly fell in love, married and eventually settled into a life in Erlanger, KY. (In his opinion, the greatest city in the world.)
In addition to serving in the military, John lived a life of service to our nation. He served as an Erlanger policeman from 1970-1986. While there, he volunteered heavily with the Lloyd Memorial High School football program and Erlanger Lions Little League Baseball. In 1986, after working as a volunteer on Jim Bunning’s congressional campaign he started a new chapter in life by taking a position as a field representative for the newly elected Congressman. He then stood by Mr. Bunning for the next 24 years, eventually becoming a military liaison for the Senator. After retiring in 2010 he put his whole heart into Rotary International. While serving with Rotary he was President of the Florence, KY club, became Governor of District 6740 and found his true passion as a part of the United States Polio Eradication Task Force.
Despite all of those accomplishments John was most proud of his children and grandchildren, his status as a fan of the Northern Kentucky University Norse and the flowers in his yard that he kept so well.
John was a long time member and elder at Lakeside Christian Church in Lakeside Park, Ky. His most defining characteristic and strongest attribute was his faith in his risen Savior Jesus Christ. His faith could not be shaken, despite all of the hardships he went through, and it is what gives his family the comfort they need to make it through this difficult time.
John is survived by his wife of 51 years, Connie Salyers, his daughters Beth Barker (Don) and Meredith Lewis, his grandchildren Jaelyn, Reagan, Camden, Bekah, Noah and Lainey and his brother and sisters, Janet Lasters, Judy Webster, June Beach and Thomas Chipman.
He is preceded in death by his mother Mildred Jean Dennis, his Aunt and Uncle Marzawilla and Hobart Marsh and his son-in-law Jeremy Lewis.
A graveside service will be held on Monday, July 13, 2020 at 11am at Kentucky Veteran’s Cemetery North in Williamstown, KY. Due to social distancing limitations, services are limited to family and close friends of Connie and John. More distant relatives and friends are asked to consider viewing the services live at https://youtu.be/eP7GtVX81as . In Lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the Polio Plus Fund (via www.Florencerotary.org). Online condolences can be made at www.Linnemannfuneralhomes.com
Kentucky Veterans Cemetery North 205 Eibeck Lane
WILLIAMSTOWN, KY 41097
Kentucky Veterans Cemetery North
Address: 205 Eibeck Lane WILLIAMSTOWN, KY 41097John Dewey Salyers
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A quality guy
In covering politics, as I did for 30 years, you meet a lot of people. Some of the best are those who labor outside the limelight, serving the public as well as their political patron. John Salyers was one of the best, especially because he worked for a politician who didn’t get along with journalists. We got along fine and I always appreciated his straightforward and diligent approach. He was a fine public servant. —Al Cross
John boy
Johnny, You did your calling on earth and now God has a calling for you in Heaven; you will be in our hearts and memories forever. You made us proud. Love you John boy
Great Memories
We are so sorry Connie, Beth and Meredith for your loss and that you all have to endure another sudden loss. Your John was taken all to quickly but at least he doesn’t have to suffer any longer. We will always remember his humor and fun loving attitude that made a bright spark at our family reunions. He will be greatly missed, but will be providing new entertainment and a new service in Heaven.
Love to all, wish we were there with you. Patti & David
Connie and your daughters
I can’t believe that John has gone to be with his Savior. He was the first person to welcome me into the Florence Rotary Club, my sponsor. I will never forget his smile and sense of humor. Or, last year when a couple of the Interactors and I planted flowers in order to cheer you up. John wanted the flowers to cheer you up but they probably lightened his spirit too!
You, your girls and your grandchildren will be in my thoughts and prayers.
Admiration
I offer my deepest sympathy and prayers to the family. My main connection with John was thru sports. John brought positive energy to life. To me, he was all that a Christian should be. Our community has lost an outstanding citizen. May you be comforted with the faith that John is in the arms of our all loving and merciful God. John is one of those individuals that was a privilege to meet in life.
R.I.P.
R.I.P. JOHN you will be truly missed brother. Go rest high on that mountain. Marc Poynter
Deepest Sympathy
So sorry for your loss
Charlie and Elaine Lunsford
Deepest Sympathy
My deepest sympathy is extended to the family of PDG John Salyers. It was a distinct honor to serve Rotary International with John as a fellow PDG. John not only talked of Rotary Ideals, but he truly lived these ideals on a daily basis. His extensive involvement in fund-raising for Rotary’s Polio-Plus Program has led our Rotary District in central and eastern Kentucky to meet its annual goals for many years, enabling the near-distinction of the dread disease, Polio, worldwide. John was a true gentleman, and an extraordinary Rotarian. We will miss him greatly! PDG J. Hunt Perkins, Lexington, Kentucky
Deepest Sympathy
Connie and family – our deepest sympathies for your loss. So many fond memories of John throughout the years. May God’s peace rest on you all in the days ahead. Terry, Diana, and Hannah Wilson
A loved Rotary presence
I am so sorry for your loss, Connie. John’s dynamic energy and positive presence at Rotary gatherings will be missed greatly.
PDG Judy Walker
John
Oh Connie I am so sorry for your loss of such a good man father and husband . It’s been so long since we have talked but when I saw this it brought back all the good times we have had. I know God has him in His arms now and will pray that he gives you and your girls some peace knowing that John is at peace with Him
Dr. Anne L. Matthews
Connie, John was so special and contributed significantly to the Polio Committee that we served on. He will be missed. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during these difficult days. God bless.
Anne L. Matthews
Columbia, SC
Sorry for your loss.
Pat Gettys and family.
Light Up Heaven
John, it was my pleasure to serve as District Governor with you in 2014-2015. I appreciate your service, both Rotary-related and other, and thank you for your insightful comments and leadership. Connie and your family have my sincerest condolences. As you did your part to Light Up Rotary, I have no doubt your star will shine bright and light up heaven. Rest In Peace, friend. — Ernie & Valerie Enchelmayer, PDG D-6170
A kind and giving gentleman
For many years, John and Connie’s name would ring out through our family. He was one of my brothers best friends and Connie Has always been in our family. My heart is with this beautiful family, but isn’t it great to know exactly where John is. Love Florence Hymer
Thanks
Remembering our many good conversations. Thanks John for your advice. Thanks for your candor and for your example of constant strength.
Love
I’m sorry for your lost he was so very kind. And me and my mother will be praying for your family.
Much love and prayers
Connie, Beth, and their families: Please know that I’m praying all of the Lord’s Peace and Comfort to surround all of you.
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