John L. Salisbury

John Salisbury, age 82, of Monroe, MI, passed away peacefully on Monday August 18th, 2025, under the care of St. Croix Hospice at Medilodge Nursing Home of Monroe.

Born on March 23, 1943, in Toledo, Ohio. John dedicated his life to education, family, and community. A lifelong learner, he earned his Bachelor’s of Education from Bowling Green State University, and two Masters of Education degrees, one in counseling and one in school administration from Eastern Michigan University. John spent his entire 37-years career working in Monroe Public Schools. During his tenure in the district, he taught at Raisinville Elementary School, Hollywood Elementary School, and Cantrick Middle School. He was also a counselor at Monroe Middle School and Cantrick. The last 17 years of his career he served as the principal of South Monroe Townsite for one year and 16 years as the principal at Raisinville Elementary School. Throughout his time in Monroe Public Schools, he was respected for the dedication and care he showed for his students, colleagues, and the families he served.

John married Karen (Kapenga) on August 20, 1971, and they spent 54 loving years together. John is survived by his wife Karen, two sons Bryan (Sarah Salisbury) of Strongsville, OH, Jason (Manali Sheth) of Chicago, IL, brother Gene (Herma) of Germany, niece Ainsley Conner (Scott) of Jacksonville, FL, and nephew John (Deanne) of Jacksonville, FL. He was proceeded in death by his parents Wolcott and Luella (Dufendock).

John was deeply committed to supporting the community and was a devoted member of St. Paul’s United Methodist Church in Monroe. He regularly volunteered at St. Paul’s including chairing the church’s Endowment Committee, took part in a trip to repair homes after Hurricane Katrina, and worked to support various youth-centered initiatives in Monroe. Additionally, John was a proud Mason and served as Past Master of Monroe Lodge #27 and was a 32nd Degree Scottish Rite Mason.

Beyond his professional and community commitments, John enjoyed boating, water skiing, traveling, and most of all, spending time with his family. Those who knew him will remember his caring heart, sense of humor, love of family and friends, and commitment to education.

There will be a visitation for family and friends from 2:00 to 6:00 PM on Sunday August 24, 2025 at Rupp Funeral Home. John’s Celebration of Life Service will be at St. Paul’s United Methodist Church in Monroe at 11:00 AM on Monday, August 25, 2025.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research or donate a tree through a Living Tribute Foundation.

The family express their heart-felt appreciation to the staff of Medilodge for the loving care and support they provided John over the last three weeks.