John H. Saeger

JOHN H. SAEGER, of Lititz, PA, went home to be with the Lord on Thursday, January 22, 2026, at the age of 87. John devoted 35 years of his professional life to PPL Corporation, retiring in 1994 as Vice President of the Lancaster Division. His career reflected both technical excellence and thoughtful leadership. He began as a transmission line designer and research engineer and went on to serve in managerial and executive roles in high-voltage engineering, community relations, marketing, customer service, and general management. John earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Electrical Engineering from Lafayette College and later his Professional Engineer license, completed graduate studies at Union College, and was a graduate of the Penn State Executive Development Program. A man of deep faith, John was a lifelong Lutheran, most recently as a member of St. Paul Evangelical Lutheran Church in Lititz. His service to the church was extensive. He served as chair of the Board of Trustees of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) Endowment Fund; as director and chair of the Board of Directors of Luthercare; president and director of the Parish Resource Center of Lancaster; and as president of congregational councils for Lutheran churches in Emmaus, Williamsport, and Lancaster (all in PA). He served several years with the development arm of the ELCA’s Funds for Leaders program that supports those studying for pastoral ministry. He also served on numerous synodical and congregational committees, taught Sunday school, sang in the choir, and occasionally served as organist. John believed strongly in service to both faith and community. From 1983 to 1990, while Vice President of PPL’s Susquehanna Division in Williamsport, PA. he served as board chair of the Williamsport–Lycoming Chamber of Commerce, director of Divine Providence Hospital, trustee of Lycoming College, and a member of the Williamsport Rotary Club. Upon relocating to Lancaster in 1991, John served as board chair of Leadership Lancaster, helping to develop volunteer leaders, and as a director of the Lancaster Chamber of Commerce and Industry. His civic involvement also included leadership roles with the Lancaster Alliance, the Economic Development Company of Lancaster County, the Pennsylvania Dutch Council of the Boy Scouts of America, and the Rotary Club of Lancaster. Following early retirement in 1994, John continued giving back, serving as a trustee of the Lancaster Farmland Trust, an organization dedicated to preserving some of the finest farmland in the world, and as chair of the Board of Trustees of the Lancaster YWCA. He also supported the United Way in a variety of roles. He and his wife began travelling extensively to both domestic and international locations, drove to Sanibel Island each winter, and spent as much time as possible in the quiet of Saegerheim, their Pocono retreat. Music was one of John’s greatest joys and his truest passion. A disciplined and gifted musician, he played the pipe organ and piano without flaw. Beginning at the age of 11, he shared his gift fearlessly, playing in churches throughout the region and during his travels, and was dedicated to offering music as an expression of faith whenever the opportunity arose. John also enjoyed attending concerts and plays, reading, and above all, being with his family. Known for his sharp mind, wry sense of humor, strong opinions, and impeccable appearance, John was deeply respected, and unwavering in his values. Devoted to improving the lives of others, he gave generously of his time, talent, and treasure, and lived a life of purpose, gratitude, and quiet confidence. John is survived by his beloved wife of 60 years, Joyce M. (Erdman) Saeger; their children, Joy Grace, Jeffrey Saeger, and Jill Wingard (Daniel); brother Dr. Richard T. Saeger (Debi); nine grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren. Relatives and friends are invited to attend John’s Visitation on Saturday, February 14, 2026 at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Lititz beginning at 9:45 a.m., immediately followed by his Memorial Service at 11:00 a.m.