John David Saltzgaver

John David Saltzgaver passed away peacefully at his home in Crawford Colorado on April 7, 2025. He was 85 years old.

Celebration of life services will be held on Saturday, May 3, 2025 at 11:00 am at the Hotchkiss First Baptist Church, 203 West Main Street, Hotchkiss, Colorado.

John was born on September 23, 1939, in Price, Utah, to Dorine and Harry Mack Saltzgaver Jr. He grew up in Bond Colorado and went through all 12 grades of school there. He graduated from McCoy High school.

John served our country in the United States Marine Corps for four years with an honorable discharge.

He married Judy Elkins, and they purchased Johnny McNally’s Fairview Lodge on the Kern River in 1975, following her death in 1996 he continued to run the lodge until he retired in 2006.

John met Rebecca and they were married in 1997. They celebrated 28 years together. John and Rebecca retired to Crawford Colorado in 2008 and made their home there. In 2012 they made the decision to adopt their grandson, Kai.

Some of John’s hobbies were watching the Denver Broncos, hunting, fishing, camping, hiking and spending time with family and friends. He was an avid follower of his son Kai, in all of his sports. He loved his church and his church family and spending time serving the Lord. He loved his savior Jesus Christ with all his heart, soul and strength.

John is survived by his wife, Rebecca Saltzgaver of Crawford, Colorado, his son, Kai Saltzgaver, his Niece Tracy Whetstone of Bakersfield, California, who he raised as his own. John is also survived by his granddaughter Celeste Rickett of Bakersfield, California, his nephew, Harry (Maria) Saltzgaver of Long Beach, California, and Bob (Lupe) Saltzgaver, of Colorado Springs, Nephew Joshua (Michelle) Dimick of Lancaster, California. He’s also survived by numerous great nephews and great nieces. He was known as “Uncle John” to many.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made in John’s name to : Hotchkiss First Baptist Church.

Arrangements are under the care of Taylor Funeral Services and Crematory.