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John Mayer, age 83, of Sturgis, passed away on Friday, June 6th, 2025, at Memorial Hospital in South Bend.
He was born on December 8, 1941 in Munich, Germany, and emigrated to the United States in 1959 with his family to pursue greater opportunities. The son of Adam and Anna Mayer, he was one of three children, Adam (deceased) and Horst. While on the ship’s passage to Ellis Island, John served as an acolyte, and was vocal soloist for the Daily Mass. He became a proud citizen of the United States in 1972.
John married the love of his life, Caralee Price, in 1962. Together they shared over 62 years of marriage with love, laughter and laboring devotion. Their partnership was the foundation of a close-knit and loving family and a testament to enduring commitment.
He is survived by his beloved daughter Deborah (Debbie) and her husband Tim Tobin. She brought such great pride and happiness to his life. One of his greatest joys was traveling to Europe to hear her sing in various Opera Houses, and to New York City for her Metropolitan Opera debut. In recent years, he attended nearly every Studio Recital or Musical Performance of her students at the University of Notre Dame.
He also held a special place in the heart for many of his nieces and nephews. Especially Tim and Lori Price, Sarah, (Jordy) Garcia and Michael Price, who shared many cherished memories. He was thought of more as a grandfather than an uncle.
John was 17 years old when he came to the USA and was already a Journeyman Tool and Die Maker. A talented toolmaker, he joined the Society of Plastic Engineers and co-founded Mayer Tool and Engineering with his wife Caralee in 1982. A business that came to be known not just for its precision work but also for the integrity and craftsmanship he poured into it every project. His talent and work ethic left a lasting mark in the industry and on those who had the privilege to work alongside him.
His craftmanship went beyond the tool shop. He was the first winner of the St. Joseph County Juried Art Show. He also designed stunning stain glass windows, handmaid gun cabinets with personalized stain glass doors for his friends, and numerous stained-glass items for Saint John’s Episcopal Church that are still used today.
John was deeply committed to his community serving for twenty-five plus years as president of the Sturgis Hospital Board, even as interim CEO. His leadership helped guide essential decisions that improved care and services for countless families in Sturgis. The recipient of numerous Service Awards, John was a past president of Rotary Club and was named a Paul Harris Fellow. While serving as Rotary Club President, he helped start the Adopt-a-Kid for Christmas Program, matching children involved in the St. Joseph County Probate Court System with 33 Rotarians. A member of the Sturgis Elks Club, John was named Elk of the Year and served on the Boots and Shoes Program which also gifted local children every Christmas with new boots, gloves, hats, socks and coats. He was a member of the Klinger Lake County Club and served as President of the Sturgis Planning Board for many years. Along with his friend, Pete Mack, he started the first Youth for Soccer Program for the City of Sturgis
John loved the outdoor life and was an avid hunter and fisherman. He took several fishing trips with his buddies and nephew, Tim.
John and Caralee traveled extensively throughout the USA and Europe with their many friends, especially Konrad and Kathy Holzworth. For over fifty years, they have shared Holidays and special occasions with their children and grandchildren.
In retirement John discovered a second passion for woodworking with the same precision and patience he brought to his career. He created stunning and intricate wood pieces that brought joy to family and friends. Whether it was a finely carved chair or a detailed salt and pepper mill or bowl each piece reflected his care, creativity and artistry.
John also found deep joy and purpose in the quiet rhythms of farm life. Each day, he made his way to the land that he loved-not because he had to but for connection to nature. Surrounded by fields, trees and the open sky, he felt most at peace on his farm. Whether tending to the land or simply watching the wildlife the farm was his sanctuary.
John will be remembered not only for his skilled hands and sharp mind but for his genuine generous heart, steady guidance and deep love he had for his family, friends and his community.
A requiem Mass will be celebrated at St. John’s Episcopal Church, 110 S. Clay St., in Sturgis, by Fr. Richard Kallenberg and Rev. Kris Veldheer, Friday, June 13th at 2pm.
The Hackman Family Funeral Homes of Sturgis is entrusted with the arrangements.
To honor John, memorial donations can be made in his name to the Tunnel to Towers Foundation, 2361 Hylan Boulevard, Staten Island, NY 10306.
We encourage relatives and friends to share memories and condolences at www.hackmanfamilyfuneralhomes.com.
