John D Surfus' Obituary
John Donald Surfus, 88, passed away peacefully on May 8, 2026, in Florida. Born on June 28, 1937, in Indiana, John lived a life defined not simply by the years on either side of his birth and death, but by the remarkable “dash” in between. Anyone who knew him understood that he truly embraced what Linda Ellis wrote about in her beloved poem The Dash — that it is not the dates that matter most, but how we live the life between them.
John was a veteran who proudly served his country during the Korean War. He carried that same sense of dedication and discipline throughout his life as a school teacher, resort owner, and lifelong student of the world. Whether he was discussing investments, sharing knowledge he had picked up through years of reading and experience, or simply striking up a conversation with someone new, John’s curiosity never faded. He had a thirst for learning that stayed with him until the very end.
He called both Saginaw, Michigan, and Ft. Myers Beach, Florida home, leaving lasting impressions and friendships in both places. John loved life’s simple joys as much as its grand adventures. He enjoyed traveling, creating stained-glass pieces, caring for animals, mowing the yard with pride, and most of all, talking with people. He never met a stranger for long. He loved hearing people’s stories almost as much as he loved telling his own.
John was known for his strong work ethic, his sharp mind, and his unforgettable personality. He could often be found reciting poetry, especially The Dash, laughing heartily, or captivating a room with one of his many stories. His warmth, humor, and ability to connect with others made him someone people naturally gravitated toward.
In addition to many dear friends and extended family members whose lives he touched throughout the years, John leaves behind those who meant the most to him.
He is survived by Karen Leuzzi, his devoted partner of 33 years; Karen’s daughter, Angela Barnsback, her husband Tim, and sons Miles and George; and Karen’s son, Chris Leuzzi, his wife Jessica, son Dustin, and daughters Jendi and Jailin.
John is also lovingly remembered by his daughter, Sheryl Stallman; his granddaughter, Sarah Kaufman, and her husband, Aaron; his grandson, Matthew Stallman, and his wife, Cassia.
He also leaves behind his beloved twin sister, Joann Hicks, and her husband, Lloyd; their sons, Matt Hicks and his wife, Lisa, and Jon Hicks and his wife, Janelle; Bobby Surfus; his sisters, Dana and Karen; as well as his nephew, Tim Wappes, and niece, Julie Wappes.
He was preceded in death by his mother, Anna Surfus; his father, John Surfus; his brother, Bob Surfus; his son, Bobby Surfus; his sister, Marie Wappes; and his son-in-law, Dr. Don Stallman.
Family and friends are invited to celebrate John's life on Saturday, July 11, 2026, at Case Funeral Home at 201 N. Miller Rd. in Saginaw, MI, 48609. Visitation will be held from 12:00 p.m. until 2:00 p.m., with a military funeral service immediately following.
In place of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to your local animal shelter or to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, two causes close to John’s heart.
John often reminded others through poetry and through the way he lived that life is measured not by titles, but by love, kindness, laughter, and the memories we leave behind. He lived his dash fully — with curiosity, hard work, generosity, humor, and a genuine love for people — and those who knew him are better because of it.
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