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With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Robert "Bob" Sawyer, who left this world on October 30, 2024, at Bluewater Health in Sarnia, after a valiant seven-month struggle following a stroke. Born on January 11, 1940, Bob's life was a tapestry of light and laughter.
Bob was a devoted husband to his late wife, Margaret Anne (née Hall), who predeceased him in 2012. A devoted father to his daughters, Cheryl Sawyer, Chris Sawyer and her partner Bill Hoque, and Nicole Sawyer and her husband, Marcello Gidaro, who all cherished his wisdom and warmth—Bob's legacy continues through his grandchildren, Noah and Eric, ever eager to share in their joys and achievements and take them down the steepest and fastest toboggan hills.
Professionally, Bob was a skilled lab technician whose meticulous approach mirrored his outlook on life. For over 30 years, he lent his expertise to Polysar, forging lasting bonds with colleagues that endured well beyond retirement. In every aspect, he embodied a quiet strength and profound kindness.
He is survived by his siblings: Ruth Anne (Bill) Moynahan, Karen (Paul) Lebert, and Jim (Karen Tessener) Sawyer, sister-in-law Marilyn (Malcolm) Leitch, as well as the memories of his late sister Shirley St. Pierre (2002, Andy) and his late brother, Doug Sawyer (1999, Jennie).
Nature held a special place in Bob’s heart. As a lifelong conservationist, he found peace in the embrace of the outdoors, nurturing a deep affinity for the land and its myriad wonders. His girls spent their childhood wandering through the family’s 50-acre playground. He taught all his daughters to drive, how to ride bikes, climb trees and how to be brave, flying down the bumpiest toboggan hills. In the late 80’s, he and Margaret stopped grazing cattle and embraced conservation by reforesting their property with thousands of trees, providing the perfect environment for hosting an apiary with Munro Honey and Meadery.
A lifelong member of the United Church of Canada, Bob found community and comfort within its walls, enriching his life through friendships forged in faith. He was an enthusiastic participant in social groups, a card player, a dedicated bibliophile, particularly Westerns, and cruciverbalist (look it up – we did!).
A particular favourite memory of Dad was on those rare occasions when Mom was away, Dad’s culinary creativity shone through: canned beans and hot dogs became an anticipated treat.
A cherished family tradition, Bob and Margaret would dance their way into each New Year, teaching their daughters the polka, waltz, and square dance—a love of dance that remained with him long after Margaret’s passing. In fact, a dance is where Bob met and kindled a lovely relationship with his second wife, Christine.
As we gather to mourn the loss of Bob, let us also celebrate the remarkable life he led. Friends and family are invited to a visitation on Friday from 3-6 p.m. at Needham-Jay Funeral Home, 4059 Petrolia Line, Petrolia. A Funeral Service will follow on Saturday, November 2, 2024, at 11:00 a.m., where we will honor Bob’s legacy of love and kindness. Interment in Wyoming Cemetery.
As an expression of sympathy, memorial donations may be made to Habitat for Humanity, or the Red Cross. (Cheques only at the funeral home).