John Rutledge Slagle

John Rutledge Slagle, 81, passed away peacefully surrounded by the love of his family on Sunday, May 31, 2026.

Born on May 21, 1945, John was an only child who spent much of his early life following his Air Force father around the world, helping shape his adventurous spirit and appreciation for people and experiences.

John was a loyal husband, devoted father, proud grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend to many. Above all else, he loved his wife, Carolyne “Granny” Slagle, more than life itself. Their marriage was built on love, loyalty, laughter, and unwavering devotion.

An avid fisherman and outdoorsman, John found joy anywhere he could cast a line, teach a lesson, or share a story. He loved passing his passion for fishing on to others and spent countless hours creating memories with family and friends.

In his younger years, John worked as an electrician, building a life through hard work and determination. For the past ten years, he proudly worked at Bass Pro, where he found much more than a job. Bass Pro became another family to him and gave him the opportunity to share his love of fishing and the outdoors with others every day. Our family will forever appreciate the friendships, kindness, support, and love they showed him throughout his journey.

John is survived by his loving wife, Carolyne Lee Slagle; his son, Rob and wife Terri; his daughter, Lori and husband Stephen; sisters-in-law Joyce and husband Tim, and Jocelyn and husband Clint; his beloved grandchildren and great-grandchildren who brought him endless joy; and numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends who loved him dearly.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Colonel Harold Slagle and Jean Slagle.

John leaves behind a lifetime of memories, lessons, laughter, and love. Though deeply missed, his legacy lives on through the family he adored and the countless lives he touched along the way.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 2:00 p.m., on Saturday, June 6, 2026, at Chelino’s, 1227 Garth Brooks Blvd., Yukon, Oklahoma.

He will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever carried in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.