Denise Carol Sawtell

Denise was born on February 1, 1945, in Colchester, England, to Doreen and Neil Lamb. As an infant, she moved to a farm near Neilburg, Saskatchewan, where she was raised alongside her siblings, Angie, Carol, Susan, Ian, Jim, and Lisa. Being the eldest, Denise was a natural leader whose strong work ethic, compassion, and fearless spirit defined her life.

Denise met the love of her life, Ron Sawtell, as a teenager. They married in 1963 and eventually made their home in Prince George, where Denise worked as a service representative with BC Tel. Together, they had four sons: Ronnie, Dean, Todd, and Drew.

From an early age, Denise loved horseback riding. Later, she enjoyed curling, while golf became a highlight of laughter-filled family reunions. Her career eventually took her to Terrace, where she discovered a passion for fishing, hiking, and skiing. After retiring as a manager with Telus, Denise and Ron settled at Cluculz Lake, where she enjoyed gardening, ice fishing, volunteering with the Red Cross, and hosting family hot dog roasts. Her grandchildren especially loved playing games with her—even if the rules occasionally changed! Denise also treasured the lifelong friendships she shared with her lake neighbours, her Telus ladies, the Magnolia group, and her friends at Gateway.

She enjoyed music and theatre, especially Grease, and was a devoted fan of Johnny Reid. She also cheered enthusiastically for the Blue Jays and the Oilers. Above all else, Denise's greatest joy was her family, and she never missed an opportunity to celebrate and support them.

Denise was predeceased by her parents; her sister, Angie; her son, Dean; her niece, Christine; and her brother-in-law, Allan.

She will be lovingly remembered and deeply missed by her husband of 63 years, Ron; her sons, Ronnie (Sandra), Todd (Tracy), and Drew; her grandchildren, Jaclyn (Steve), Trevor (Milana), Hope (Sammy), Shae (Austin), and Paige (Cody); her cherished great-granddaughters, Sloane and Ella; her siblings; her extended family; her many nieces and nephews; and countless dear friends.

The family extends their heartfelt thanks to the compassionate caregivers who supported Denise throughout her illness.

In keeping with Denise's wishes, no service will be held.

“Her generosity, strength, and unwavering love for her family will remain in the hearts of all who knew her."