John David Saltzgaver

John Salzgaver passed away peacefully at home in Crawford Colorado at the age of 85. Celebration of John’s Life was held on Saturday May 3, 2025 at 11AM at the Hotchkiss First Baptist Church, 2023 West Main St, Hotchkiss, CO. Locally, A Celebration of John’s life will be held at McNally’s Fairview Lodge May 17th 11:00 AM, Hosted by McNally’s Lodge and friends of John Saltzgaver, Pastor Nick Cassady, presiding. Lunch will be served, please RSVP to McNally’s, 760 376-2430, if attending.
John was born to Doreen and Harry Mack Saltzgaver in Price Utah on September 23, 1939. He grew up in Bond Colorado and served his country in the Marine Corps for 4 years with an honorable discharge.
He met his first wife, Judy Elkins, while working in the Los Angeles area aviation industry. John and Judy were married in1968. They became an integral part of the Kern River Valley when they purchased McNally’s Fairview Lodge in1976. The lodge was a gathering place for friends and family as well as a training ground for the many Kern Valley youth that learned their work ethic busing tables and washing dishes at the restaurant.
After Judy’s death, John Married Rebecca in 1997. John and Becky continued the McNally’s tradition until they retired to John’s roots in Colorado in 2006. John and Becky adopted their grandson, Kai. John actively supported Kai in his school and sports activities as well as enjoying hunting, camping, fishing, and spending time with friends and family. He was an avid Broncos fan. He was active in his church and loved his savior, Jesus Christ with all his heart, soul, and strength.
John is survived by his wife, Rebecca Saltzgaver of Crawford, CA, his son, Kai, his niece Tracy Whetstone of Bakersfield CA, who he raised as his own, his granddaughter Celeste Rickett of Bakersfield CA, nephews, Harry Saltzgaver of Long Beach, CA, Bob Saltzgaver of Colorado Springs, CO, Joshua Dimick of Lancaster, CA, Jesse and Greg Elkins of Onyx, CA, Harrison Elkins of Indiana, Garrett Elkins of San Diego CA, Loren Elkins, St. Louis, MO and nieces, Kaitlyn Anderson of Kernville, CA, Shannon Ortiz of Las Vegas, NV, and Judy Elkins of St. louis, MO. He was “Uncle John” to many.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in his name to the Hotchkiss First Baptist Church in Hotchkiss.