Obituary: Sawtell, John R., Sr.
Age 73
John was pre-deceased by his wife of 48 years Mathilda Elizabeth Sawtell (Mitzi: 12/3/41-4/22/2009) and his son John R. Sawtell, Jr. (Johnny: 9/10/63-1/24/2013).
John is survived by his two daughters: Sevone McGinnis with husband Michael McGinnis, and Joelle Yarboro.
“Papa” is lovingly remembered by his 11 grandchildren: Teresa, Michelle, Michael (II), Sean, Patrick, Joseph, and Michaela McGinnis, John Austin and Joelle Sawtell, and Christopher and Jami Yarboro.
John’s youth in Stuart, Florida (Martin Co.) was spent with his family and friends riding horses, fishing, hunting, shooting, and learning all about nature which he would later share with his children and grandchildren.
John’s early job was a Security Guard at Johnathon Dickinson State Park in Hobe Sound, Fl.
He graduated from Martin Co. High School in 1959 and became a member of the Civil Air Patrol guarding the St. Lucie Locks.
John married Mitzi, the love of his life, on August 27th, 1960.
He started his career at a company called Big Chief Construction making $1.30 an hour as an “Oiler and Greaser”.
John established “Sawtell Land Clearing” 1965 until 2001 where he retired in Spokane, WA.
John successfully cleared orange groves, assisted Martin County with demolition, worked with the County Commissioners, and local business owners.
With his son John teamed up to construct the Indian River Plantation Golf Course and build pads for Hutchison Island Beach House Condominiums.
John loved to take the time to chat, share a good story, practical joke, or a laugh.
He was a man of honor who would give you his word and fight for his beliefs.
John volunteered as a Range Master for the local Inland NW Council of the BSA (2002-2005) teaching shooting sports at summer Day Camps, and volunteered at several churches.
He always shared a helping hand.
John saw God’s blessings in his life and inspired us all by his final words “Thank you Jesus, Thank you Jesus, Thank you Jesus…” The family wishes to extend our deepest appreciation to: John Moyna (Caregiver three years), the staff at Manor Care, and Hospice of Spokane who assisted us in the final days and hours.
Donations can be made in John’s name to Hospice of Spokane.
John’s life and journey was an adventure which continues now with his beloved wife and son.
A public viewing and Rosary will be held at Mt.
St. Michael’s on Sunday, August 3, 2014 at 7:00pm.
The Requiem Mass will be held at Mt.
St. Michael’s 10:00am on August 4, 2014 at 10:00am: interment at Holy Rosary Cemetery located onsite at St. Michael’s.
This is submitted by his family with great affection, gratitude, and everlasting love.
Please visit Libby’s online memorial page at www.hennesseyfuneralhomes.com to leave a message of condolence.