John J. Scherden

John J Scherden, 82, of Sarasota, Florida, passed away on October 30 at Life Path Hospice, surrounded by his family, after a 10-year battle with Multiple Myeloma. John was born July 7 1942, in Detroit, Michigan to Angeline and Joseph Scherden, he was the oldest of four siblings, Mary Ann (Forston), George Scherden (Cheryl), and Patrick Scherden (Carol). John is survived by Sandra Scherden of Florida, his children: John J Scherden Jr. of Florida, Laura Cornock (Rob) of Florida, Craig Scherden of Illinois, his grandchildren: Cameron Cornock (Lauren) of Florida, Delaney Cornock Ratliff (Blake) of North Carolina, Carson Cornock of Florida, Evan and Austin Scherden of illinois, and his beloved great-granddaughter Addilyn Cornock of Florida and many loved nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister, Mary Ann Forston.

After graduating high school, John joined the United States Air Force; after basic training, he married Sandy, and they began their life together in Topeka, starting to grow their family. Where their eldest son, John Jr., was born. After four years of active-duty service in the military, he was honorably discharged and returned to his home state of Michigan, settling in the suburbs of Detroit. They continued building their family and welcomed Laura and Craig. After building a family foundation, he began to prioritize his education, ultimately graduating with his B.A. from Wayne State University in Detroit, Michigan. All while working full-time and a married husband raising three children. After successfully entering the business world, he expanded his interests, owning one of the first Subway restaurants in Michigan. This success catapulted his passion for entrepreneurship, beginning endeavors in renovating homes, owning and selling several businesses, and ultimately retiring as a successful realtor in the Sarasota area.

His passion for traveling began with his wife, Sandy. He ultimately became an avid world traveler, spending a month in Asia and countless trips with his grandchildren on cruises and other solo trips from Ireland, Germany, Paris, and many more! His passions were extensive, and he was always active in his community. His involvement in cycling, walking groups, kayaking, and pickleball cemented his presence as a friend, volunteer, and community member. He attributes this community to his long-lasting friendships in the Sarasota community. His passion for education made him a mentor within the local school system, offering his time to children and young adults, where he tutored them in reading and writing and served as their advocate.

While serving his passions in retirement, he was diagnosed with terminal cancer, Multiple Myeloma. He took this not as a death sentence but as a challenge, ultimately fighting for 10 years. Within those 10 years, he became involved with an organization, known as Team Tony. Which dedicated efforts to connecting fellow multiple myeloma patients to help them navigate their diagnosis.

Wanting to be closer to his family, he recently relocated to Valrico, where he immediately established himself as an ambassador at Osprey Heights, an independent senior apartment complex. Becoming synonymous with “activity director,” you could find him organizing and playing Euchre, Rummikub, and corn hole tournaments. In his months there, he and his vivacious great-granddaughter became popular with the residents. He loved his family, friends, and the life he created; he will be dearly missed.

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to:

Lifepath Hospice

3723 Upper Creek Drive

Ruskin, Florida 33573

C/O John Scherden and Family