It is with deep sadness that Diocesan House shares the death of the Rev. Dr. John Adler on Sunday, September 10, 2023. Fr. Adler had been a priest in our diocese for more than 30 years, serving as Vicar of St. Raphael’s (2015-2019), Founding Vicar of Iona-Hope (1998 -2012), Founding Vicar of St. Monica’s (1991-1998), and Assistant Rector of St. Boniface (1989-1991). He served as Dean and Canon Missioner of the Ft. Myers Deanery.
Fr. Adler was ordained at St. Boniface Church in Sarasota on December 16, 1989. He retired in 2012. In retirement, he served as Vicar of St. Raphael’s (2015-2019). Fr. Adler held a Bachelor of Science in Economics from the University of Illinois; a Juris Doctor from Chicago-Kent College of Law; a Master of Divinity in Parish Ministry and a Doctor of Ministry in Congregational Development both from Seabury-Western Theological Seminary.
He is survived by his wife, Wanda, and their two children, Audrey and John Jr.
A Celebration of Life Service for Fr. Adler will be held on Sunday, October 15, at 2:00 p.m. at Iona-Hope Episcopal Church, 9650 Gladiolus Drive, Fort Myers, FL 33908. Following the service, all are invited to a reception at St. Charles Yacht Club, 15900 St. Charles Harbour Blvd, Fort Myers.
In lieu of flowers, the family has requested memorial donations be made to:
Habitat for Humanity of Lee and Hendry Counties, Inc.
12751 New Brittany Blvd., Suite 100
Fort Myers, FL 33907
or
Shattuck St. Mary’s School (where John attended High School)
1000 Shumway Ave.
Attn: Kim Backen
Faribault, MN 55021
or
A mission-focused organization of your choosing.
For those who are unable to attend in person, the service will be live-streamed on YouTube and on our Website @ www.ionahope.org.