In loving memory of

Jeff Sauer
March 10, 1943 - February 2, 2017

MADISON -Jeffrey Burns Sauer, age 73, passed away surrounded by his family on February 2, 2017 in Madison, Wisconsin after courageously battling a brief illness. Beloved husband, father, "Papa," brother, uncle, and friend, Jeff will be missed by many. He inspired us all with his positive attitude, loyalty, integrity, and steadfast dedication to friends and family. He is survived by his wife Jamie, son Chip (Rachel), daughter Beth (Carl) Frederick, sister Ann (Ken) Donovan, mother-in-law Joan Adler, brother-in-law Michael Adler, sister-in-law Wendy Jordan, nieces and nephews, and four beautiful grandchildren Eliana, Camden, Malia, and Amelie. A private family service is planned followed by a memorial service at a later date. In lieu of flowers, contributions to The USA Hockey Foundation (usahockeyfoundation.com) or the American Hearing Impaired Hockey Association (usadeafhockey.org) are appreciated.

Cress
Funeral and Cremation Service
3610 Speedway Road Madison
608-238-3434

Tributes

John Marino wrote on Feb 24, 2017:

"I got to know Jeff in the early 90's as a Milwaukee Area HS Hockey coach. I would go out for an afternoon and pick their brains and watch a practice. In the mid 90's I brought a prospect out for a tour and meeting. We got to know each other. What I remember most is that in 2002, my wife and two sons were in the Excel Energy Center for the NCAA Frozen Four. We were walking in a large crowd to get into the area when Jeff and I spotted each other. He was a distance away with shoulder to shoulder people between us. Yet, instead of just a wave, he waded through the people to come over and personally greet us. You don't forget those things. Count me a fan. May his bright light shine upon us all. "

Max McCormick wrote on Feb 9, 2017:

"I only met Coach Sauer one time, when we filmed an interview with him for Liberty Mutual's Reponsible Sports website a few years back. I knew then that this was a man of great heart and soul. After that meeting, I followed his involvement with the U.S. Sled Hockey team with deep admiration. He will be missed. My deepest condolences to all of his family and friends on your loss. Max McCormick"

Deborah Rubino (AHIHA ) wrote on Feb 8, 2017:

"Coach was one of the best things to happen to me, his passion became everyone's. I am the loving person I am today with his help. Love you coach and I will never forget you. Rubino "

Jay Vendola wrote on Feb 7, 2017:

"To a great coach who was the head coach and leader of American Hearing Impaired Hockey Association (AHIHA) Thanks for everything you done for us. Sincerely yours, JayVendola and the AHIHA Family"

Cam Seamone wrote on Feb 6, 2017:

" I had the pleasure of meeting Coach Sauer (Jeff) in January 2016 at the World Sledge Hochey Championships held in my home town in Bridgewater, NS, Canada. He was an amazing ambassador for Hockey USA and the sport of sledge hockey. As the teams co-host while in town Coach Sauer, the entire management team and players welcomed me into their environment. The team, like their coach were a truly class act. I attended the latest WSHC in Charlettetown, PEI in December and Coach and the team qenuinely welcomed us back. Cam and Ruth Seamone Sent from my iPad"

Mike Johnson wrote on Feb 6, 2017:

"All my best to you Jamie, Chip, Beth & family at this difficult time. Jeff was true gentleman, gem in so many wonderful ways. I feel very fortunate to have worked with him, been a small part of his amazing legacy. He will be sorely missed. Blessings & prayers, Mike Johnson "

Mike Strobel wrote on Feb 5, 2017:

"Jamie, Chip and Beth. My heartfelt prayers go out to all of you. I am sorry for your loss. I feel so blessed and honored to have played for Jeff and be mentored by such a kind, compassionate and loving man. He truly was like a Father to me! I miss his smile and sense of humor already. Please know that he impacted so many lives for the better and we all knew how much he loved you all. Many Blessings and prayers. Sincerely, Mike Strobel"

Becky Connors wrote on Feb 5, 2017:

"Jamie, Chip and Beth. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. I am so sorry for your loss. Sincerely, Becky Connors"

Jon Helgeson wrote on Feb 4, 2017:

"Jamie, Chip and Beth. I am so sorry for your loss. I played for Coach Sauer years ago, and considered him a friend long past my playing days. He not only taught us a unruly group of kids about the game of hockey, but more importantly...the game of life! He was a great man. My prayers are with you through this time. Blessed be his memory. Best regards, Jon Helgeson"