John E. Sandberg 1925-2024

John was born Sept. 27, 1925, the son of Karl and Alice Rowan Sandberg. John graduated from South High School in 1943 and then joined the Army during WWII, where he served as master sergeant with the 303rd Field Artillery Unit in Germany during the Battle of the Ruhr Pocket. He was awarded a Bronze Star, Good Conduct Medal and various Theater Ribbons.

Upon his honorable discharge from the Army, John attended Youngstown State University; he graduated in 1950, earning a degree in accounting. He was a great lover of jazz and played the drums in various jazz bands during college.

He spent his career working in the steel industry. John was executive vice president and co-owner of Shenango Steel Company, Masury, until it became part of Sharon Steel Corporation, Sharon, Pa. John later became part of Liberty Steel Products, North Jackson, until he retired at the “young” age of 92.

John was an active member of First Covenant Church, Youngstown, where he was confirmed in 1941, until his passing. He was a 32nd Degree Mason — Scottish Rite; member of Harmony Swedish Lodge, Al Koran Shrine, Cleveland; served on the board of directors at the AA clinic and Mental Health Association of Youngstown; and a member of the YSU Alumni Association, among numerous other organizations. He was a member of the Trumbull Country Club, Oak Tree Country Club and Pittsburgh Athletic Club.

John is survived by his beloved wife, Jean, of 43 years; his two daughters, Jackie Coons of Struthers and Deborah Sandberg of California; two stepdaughters, Mary Jo Germaine of Pittsburgh, Pa., and Gina DiGiovanni of Warren; two stepsons, Joe DiGiovanni (Terra) of Warren and Don DiGiovanni (Ruth) of Cortland; his sister, Sara Boyd (Dean) of Poland; five grandchildren, John, Todd, Christopher, Ashton and Eva; and five great-grandchildren, Oliver, Jack, Molly, Lucas and Kenzie.

Beside his parents, John was preceded in death by his son, Michael Sandberg; daughter, Patricia Sandberg; sister, Ann Appleyard; and his grandson, Scott Sandberg.

Services will be private. Arrangements will be handled by Lane Funeral Homes, Canfield.

The family would like to thank Hospice of the Valley, Hospice House, for the compassionate care they provided for John and the unwavering support they provided for his family.

(special notice)