Raymond D. Sadler, 96, passed away peacefully in his sleep on January 3, 2024. Ray was born in Fort Wayne to William and Ethel (Davis) Sadler on July 28, 1927.

His childhood was spent on a farm in Adams County where he graduated from Monroe High School. Upon graduation he enlisted in the United States Navy during World War II and later graduated from Indiana University. He worked for International Harvester for 43 years. On August 1, 1948, he married his childhood friend and one-room schoolhouse classmate, Mildred "Sally" L. Beer. Ray and Sally celebrated their 75th anniversary this past summer before Sally's passing in September. During her final years, Ray gave Sally tender and compassionate care as her health declined. As a young man, Ray was an excellent athlete, and remained an avid sports enthusiast throughout his life. He enjoyed family and friends, singing, playing cards, travelling and shooting the breeze. Ray served as an active volunteer in numerous church and community organizations and was a member of Salem United Church of Christ.

Ray is survived by his children Ted (Julie) of Fort Wayne, Neal (Carolyn) of Medina, Ohio, and Jill (Gregg) Francisco of Cicero, Indiana; grandchildren Nathan (Katelyn) Sadler of Richmond, Vermont, Ashley (Kyle) Harding of Chicago, Illinois, Emily (Carter) McCrea of Niles, Michigan, Deborah Sadler of Townshend, Vermont, and Luke Francisco of Ann Arbor, Michigan; and 6 great-grandchildren, Fionnula, Hannah, Samuel, Anna, Caroline and Beau. He was preceded in death by his brothers, William and Robert.

Services will be held at 11 am on Friday, January 12 at Covington Memorial Funeral Home, 8408 Covington Road, Fort Wayne, IN 46804 with calling one hour prior. Visitation will be held from 4 pm to 8 pm on Thursday, January 11, also at the funeral home. Burial will take place in Covington Memorial Gardens, Fort Wayne, IN.

Memorials may be made to Crossroad Child and Family Services, 1825 Beacon Street, Fort Wayne, IN 46805, or the charity of your choice.