Obituary of John Arthur Sayles

John Arthur Sayles was born on July 4, 1940 in Monroe.   He was one of four children born from the late Ronald and Ollivette (Hensley) Sayles.   John attended Monroe High School graduating with the Class of 1959.   He then enlisted in the United States Army, honorably serving his country from March 9, 1959 until he was discharged on February 27, 1961.

John married the love of his life, Carol Brablec on January 20, 1962 at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church.   From this union came the birth of three children.   John worked hard to provide for the needs of his family.   He spent more than thirty years at General Motors Powertrain working in production and the heat treat department.   For fifteen years, John and Carol operated D&D Tower and Antenna installing television and communication towers.   After retiring, John became a new vehicle transporter for Monroe Dodge, a position that he particularly loved.     

John wasn’t one to let the grass grow under his feet.   He loved to be outside and often cruised the streets in his golf cart.   He enjoyed feeding the birds faithfully.   He was quite proud of his 38’ Ford, Carol’s 66’ Mustang convertible, and of his favorite, the 55’ Chevy.    John loved bluegrass and gospel music.  He was a talented singer participating with the Michigan Concert Choir.   A self-proclaimed comedian, John loved to sing and make those around him laugh.   He was an avid sports fan, always rooting for his Tigers, Lions, and Wolverines.   John loved eagles and collecting knick-knacks. 

John, age 78, of Monroe, passed away at 6:08pm on Monday, September 24, 2018 at Beaumont Hospital in Trenton. In addition to his parents, his passing was preceded by two brothers:  Thomas and Ronald; and a sister: Donna Stanfill.

To cherish his memory, John leaves his beloved wife of fifty-six years: Carol Sayles of Monroe; three children: Carrie (David) Lawrence of Perrysburg, Lori (Don) Smith of Toledo, and James Sayles of Florida; and one grandson: Noah Lawrence.

Friends may gather from 2:00pm-8:00pm on Friday, September 28, 2018 at Merkle Funeral Service, South Monroe; 14567 South Dixie Highway (734) 241-7070.   A Celebration of His Life will take place at 11:00am on Saturday, September 29, 2018 also at Merkle’s with Reverend Roy Southerland pastor of Monroe Missionary Baptist Church officiating.

Memorials are suggested to Friends of Companion Animals, P.O. Box 35, Temperance, Michigan 48182.   Online guests may visit www.merklefs.com.