John David Saba Sr.

John David Saba Sr. died peacefully on September 14, surrounded by his family. Johnny, 81, was a loving husband, father, brother, uncle and grandfather known for his generosity, sense of humor and unbridled optimism. He was a force of nature.

Johnny was born in Dallas where he remained a lifelong resident, frustrated Cowboy fan and Willie Nelson devotee. Raised in Lakewood, he was educated at St. Thomas Aquinas, Jesuit College Prep and St. Mary’s University, where he studied as both an undergraduate and graduate student of finance and economics and was a member of the Sigma Phi Epsilon fraternity.

Johnny enlisted in the military after school in San Antonio where he served as a First Lieutenant stationed at the Korean Demilitarized Zone. He was a proud veteran of the U.S. Army and participated in many Memorial Day ceremonies.

San Antonio was also the city where he met his wife of 55 years Edwina Karam, the perfect match to his intellect, shared values, style and charm.

While in college, Johnny was introduced to the early days of computing when they still used cards to read code, taking his interest and developing a career as a top sales, marketing and product executive for several companies that specialized in banking software. He was into fin-tech before fin-tech became a business concept.

Johnny was not only known for his work ethic but for applying the same energy to his many hobbies. He was a runner who competed in several half marathons and Turkey Trots, making sure to pack a pair of jogging shoes on his many business trips throughout the United States and beyond. Golf, too, was a passion, whether on the links at Brookhaven Country Club or annual sojourns to Naples, Florida. He was an amateur chef who cooked many elaborate dinners for family and friends. Trains and planes held a special place in his heart. Johnny built model flying World War II bombers and fashioned electronic train sets to the delight his children and, eventually, their children.

A dedicated Catholic, Johnny was an inducted as a member of the Order of St. Sharbel earlier this year.

Johnny was preceded in death by his parents, David and Mable Saba; sisters, Theresa Tenney and Margo Thomas. He is survived by his wife, Edwina Saba; son John Saba Jr. (Marie); daughter Jennifer Saba (Andrew Rice); brothers Dr. Richard Saba (Beth) and Phillip Saba (Kathy); sister Mary Saba; and grandchildren John Saba III, Elaine Saba and Edward Rice. He was a beloved brother-in-law to Patricia Karam and Edward Karam and uncle to his many nieces and nephews.

The visitation, rosary and funeral mass will be held at St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church, 6306 Kenwood Ave., on Thursday September 19 beginning at 11:30 a.m.