John Saggio

John was a beloved son, brother, uncle and friend and will be deeply missed by his family.

He was born September 23, 1941 and spent most of his childhood in the Bronx, New York – a place he loved and remembered fondly. Growing up, he was an athlete, playing on his high school baseball team before graduating from Sachem High School in Lake Ronkonkoma. He was an exceptional athlete and pursued a professional career in baseball, getting to the final round of cuts for the New York Yankees. However, teaching and his studies became his real passion.

John attended Moody Bible Institute before being drafted into the United States Army. He was a Vietnam War veteran and served with dedication and compassion as an assistant chaplain overseas.

He was an Arizona State University graduate, earning a degree in History with a separate concentration in English.

John had a career in education, and was a lively and passionate junior high English teacher known for his unconventional instruction. During this time, he also taught philosophy at the prison in Florence, Arizona. He was also a substitute teacher in Mesa.

John was an exceptional educator and scholar, and spent much of his life dedicated to his studies. He later published his life’s work, a book titled “The Destiny of Israel and Twilight of Christianity,” a deep dive into the theological questions and theories he had diligently researched for decades.

Outside of school, John was a very active volunteer, coach and umpire. He was the announcer at the Apache Junction Junior High football games. He also coached the school’s girls’ basketball team and baseball team, and umpired at Apache Junction Little League.

However, John was most passionate about his family and was a devoted son and caregiver to both of his parents. He has been the family’s patriarch, ensuring everyone was considered and supported. John was a deep thinker and loved conversation. He could talk for hours on the mysteries of the world, spirituality and what’s to come. Those conversations were impactful and he will be remembered for them.

He is preceded in death by his mother, Helen Giamario Saggio, and father, Joseph D. Saggio. John leaves behind two brothers, Richard Saggio and Joseph V. Saggio, sister-in-law Barbara Saggio; his nephews and their spouses, Thomas Saggio (Sally), Rick Saggio (Jeanine), Brandon Saggio (Rachel) and Soren Saggio (Marcy); and a niece Jessica Saggio Forgino (Andrew). He also is a grand uncle to 10 and a great grand to three.

John’s services include a visitation Dec. 1 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Mariposa Gardens Memorial Park, located at, 6747 East Broadway Rd. Mesa, AZ. 85206 (Southwest corner Power Rd and Broadway Rd.)

A Celebration of Life of life will be held at the same location Dec. 2. from noon to 1 p.m. A reception will follow from 1pm to 3pm

In Lieu of flowers please donate to John's favorite charities, Saint Judes or the Veterans or your local

food bank.

In celebration of John you can wear his favorite color GREEN. Casual dress please.