Obituary of Kenneth Sawyer

Kenneth R. Sawyer, born August 28, 1922 in Watertown, NY to Howard E. and Gloria Sawyer, died November 27, 2014 at Strong Memorial Hospital in Rochester, NY. Ken is survived by his loving wife of 72 years, Florence M. Sawyer (Babe) of Canandaigua, NY, daughter Tara (Robert) Farmer of Canandaigua, NY, and sister, Margaret Thompson of Three Mile Bay, NY. Ken is also survived by his grandchildren Christopher (Sara Wiggins) Farmer of Canandaigua, NY, Jason (Becky Brown) Farmer of Penn Yan, NY, Tamara Farmer of Canandaigua, NY, great-grandchildren Alexis, Eric, Aksel, and Felix Farmer as well as one great-great-grandchild Alaric Farmer, and beloved pet cat Sir Michael. Ken served in the U.S. Navy from 8/1942 to 11/1945; stationed on the USS Baham in the Pacific Corridor during WWII. After the war Ken came home to his family in Watertown, NY where he worked at the New York Air Brake Co., retiring in 1982, having served as the Director of Purchasing and as a Senior System Analyst. Ken also attended college in Watertown, NY graduating with a degree in Business from Jefferson Community College when he was in his forties. He went on to teach courses relating to his purchasing position at the same college. Throughout the years Ken also served on numerous committees and boards within the community and for various professional organizations. Ken received many awards and commendations for his accomplishments relating to his professional and volunteer activities as well as for his military service. After his retirement, Ken and Babe moved to Canandaigua, NY to be closer to their daughter and grandchildren. They have lived “up the road” ever since. As a young man, Ken was a horseman, caring for his mare Rose O’Day; descendant of the renowned race horse Man O’War. Ken’s lifetime hobby of wood-working resulted in the design & building of five homes for his family (and one barn/shed) along with many other projects to lovingly furnish his and his families homes. He also enjoyed traveling and camping with Babe in their motorhome dubbed “Little B”, and spending time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Ken had a sharp mind; he enjoyed cross-word puzzles and was a card-shark. He spent many joy filled evenings and holidays playing games with his loved ones. Ken’s cheerful attitude and loving heart will be remembered and missed by everyone who knew him.