John Michael Sturm

John was a friend. John effortlessly made friends in many contexts: schools, churches, sports teams, tailgating, the hunt club, the country club, at various jobs, and in professional organizations throughout his career. He not only made friends, but had the ability to make each one feel singularly treasured. On his behalf, the family deeply appreciates the friends who have remained constant in loyalty and support. If you were a privileged recipient of his notoriously verbose phone calls, we thank you for the gift of your time. You might agree with his daughter Kate that he was a real “talkie Milwaukee!”

John Michael was a brother. He was a brother in Christ to all who know his Savior. His security rested on the words of John 10:28 “And I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; neither shall anyone snatch them out of my hand.”

He was baby brother to Kelly Sturm Hammer, and big brother to Steven Sturm and Karla Sturm. The Sturm siblings shared many beautiful seasons. Childhood in West Virginia playing outside in the creek, hiking in the apple orchard, and growing up with our dear cousins. The move to South Carolina later brought first cars, first jobs, and years of further education. Holidays, visits, and adventures that continued in adulthood will always be cherished. John Michael provided love and laughter to our group. As a protective and helpful brother, he gave us valuable advice on everything from sound investments to training puppies to landscaping our homes. “To the outside world we all grow old, but not to brothers and sisters. We know each other as we always were. We know each other‘s hearts. We share private family jokes. We remember family feuds and secrets, family griefs and joys. We live outside the touch of time.“

He was also “Uncle John“ to Marshall Hammer, Laura Hammer Headley, Grant Michael Hammer, and to Ashley and Dylan Wood, children of longtime friends Wylie and Melissa Wood.

John Michael is the beloved firstborn son of Steven and Sherry Sturm. Named for both of their older brothers, he carried that family legacy with great pride. He shared a unique bond with his mother who remained his most loyal mentor and most faithful prayer warrior. John learned from his father an admiration and respect for the wonder of God‘s creation. He always loved to spend time with him hunting, fishing, and especially being at the cabin that they built together. He joins his “ol’ Dad” in Heaven to wait for a glad family reunion. Perhaps they are reminiscing about all their good hound dogs or telling the “bear story!”

John was a proud and dedicated father to Kate Gilbert Sturm. He gave her all the very best that he could give. They enjoyed a special tradition of playing checkers, and having fiercely competitive Uno tournaments. They would often go to the library, and also to the lake for picnics and scooter rides. Daddy loved listening to Kate’s “jibber jabber“ and her truly infectious laugh. They called each other “silly goose“ and had countless inside jokes, routines, and favorite songs. More importantly, they attended church together at Calvary Chapel Northeast, and were growing in their faith. From the earliest part of Kate’s life, Scripture memory has been part of their father-daughter tradition, with Psalm 100 being a favorite.

You can honor John with us by remembering the best and truest things about him. He always had plenty of warmth and time for his friends. Remember his humor, his wit, and his hearty laugh. His exceptional vocabulary.

His vocal and tenacious support of the Steelers and the Gamecocks! His love for the West Virginia hills, ramps, and a fresh pepperoni roll; a beautiful day to fish on the river or a crisp, fall morning to hunt from a tree stand. Remember him for his heart full of love and pride for his daughter. Most of all, remember his gratitude for his eternal security in Christ.

“For the Lord is good; his mercy is everlasting, and his truth endures to all generations.” Psalm 100:5

A Celebration of Life will be held on Wednesday, September 30, 2026 at 3:00 pm at Mackey Funerals and Cremations at Woodlawn, 1 Pine Knoll Dr., Greenville, SC 29609.