John Sater's legacy will be long, enduring

We purchased land in Boundary County more than 25 years ago, and made it our home. Among the first acquaintances we made was John Sater. This acquaintance developed into a close friendship, where we were invited to birthday celebrations, had John to our house for family dinners, and much more.

One of John's sons, Jeff, took my father, a World War II veteran, on an honor flight to Washington, D.C. Dad, a retired chemistry and physics professor, tutored and other of his sons, Shane, in physics.

We ultimately became very good friends.

Every Thursday, our family would go the Sater's auction, which was, to us, the county social event. John kept the auction going, even though he was 90 years old, because of the people who loved to participate, often arriving hours early to have breakfast, or coffee and doughnuts, to visit, and see to the welfare of those who were regularly there.

On Friday, Sept. 10, we lost this friend. A man who lived by the same standard he believed in. John raised money at the auction for noble purposes, including Shriner's Burn Hospitals, Children's Hospital, and for others in the community who had suffered catastrophic losses. He did this without consideration of "what's in it for me,” but only for the good that comes from following the Scriptures, "Do unto others.” John Sater was a man always willing to share his knowledge and experiences with us, to our benefit. We mourn his (our) loss.

One of life’s greatest accomplishments is to leave something worthy behind. John can now look down on this and see the fine sous and daughter of his, continuing his role on this Earth, with happiness that they are also capable and honest, worthy of being his children.

John, thank you for being a friend, thank you for caring, and godspeed on your new and marvelous journey.

SELBY S. SHARP JR.

Moyie Springs