It is with heavy hearts that we share the passing of Kerry John Sliger, who died unexpectedly in his sleep while on vacation in Australia on January 19, 2026. Kerry was born on July 22, 1963, in Garrett, Indiana, to Kenneth and Reba (Knapp) Sliger. He graduated from DeKalb High School in 1981 and later earned his degree in education from Ball State University in 1985.

On October 4, 1986, Kerry married Deborah M. (Donnelly) Sliger in Hobart, Indiana. Together, they welcomed three children into the world: Jarek (Maggie Richardson) Sliger of Madison, Wisconsin; Nolan Sliger of Fort Wayne, Indiana; and Samantha Sliger of St. Petersburg, Florida. Kerry is also survived by his siblings: Randy (Jennifer Tann) Sliger of Charleston, South Carolina; Ryan (Kari) Sliger of Fort Wayne, Indiana; and Kris (Joy) Sliger of Avilla, Indiana, along with several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents.

Kerry was a man of many talents and passions. He dedicated 39 years to teaching, serving students across several schools, including Fort Wayne Community Schools and East Allen County Schools. His students admired his one-of-a-kind charm, and his colleagues knew him as someone who was always willing to help with any activity.

After recently retiring, Kerry was enjoying traveling with Deb while continuing to pursue his many hobbies. He loved history, woodworking, tracking down parts for his never-ending projects, and reading fantasy novels. One of his favorite quotes, from The Lord of the Rings, was:

"A wizard is never late, nor is he early. He arrives precisely when he means to."

It was often muttered by Kerry and is still fondly repeated by his children. Kerry will be deeply missed, and his memory will live on in the many lives he touched.

Family and friends are invited to a celebration of life at Divine Mercy Funeral Home, located at 1986 W. Cedar Canyons Road, Huntertown, Indiana 46748, on Saturday, February 14, 2026, from 1:00 to 5:00 p.m. Words of Remembrance will be shared from 1:00 to 1:30 p.m. by Father Dan of St. Vincent de Paul, where Kerry was a devoted member of the community.

Memorial contributions in memory of Kerry J. Sliger may be made to the YMCA.