Thomas Francis Sawtell

It is with great sadness that the family of Thomas Sawtell announce his peaceful passing on Sunday, April 12, 2026 at the age of 92 in Kelowna, BC. He is survived by his wife of 62 years, June, and his children, Dallas (Eddie) and Tanis.

Tom was born in Lashburn, Saskatchewan and grew up in the Cosy Nook area. His family then moved west and settled in Burnaby, BC.

Tom obtained a Bachelor of Arts degree from UBC and completed his Masters of Education at Western Washington University. He spent 17 years teaching in B.C.'s public school system, 6 of them as an elementary school principal. In 1963, while teaching in Squamish, BC, he married June, a fellow teacher, and they had two daughters. In 1974 Tom and his family moved to Prince George, BC where he began working at the College of New Caledonia as an instructor in the Developmental Studies Centre. He worked there till his retirement in 1992.

Tom and June retired to Kelowna in 1992 where they happily lived in the Sandstone adult community for 31 years. Here Tom managed the monthly pancake breakfasts for many years as well as serving on strata and helping with other activities.

Tom was very dedicated to his community work. He was a lifelong Lions Club member where he was very active and held numerous positions. He volunteered for the CNIB (Canadian National Institute for the Blind) in Kelowna and also helped to promote Lions-Quest programs for schools. He also enjoyed being part of the Bonsai Club and creating his own bonsai at home.

Tom had a sense of adventure and enjoyed traveling. He spent 6 months in Europe in 1961 traveling around with a good friend. Once Tom had a family they spent every summer visiting numerous places across Canada and the United States, camping in their van.

Most importantly Tom was a family man. His family was his pride and joy and he loved them dearly. He will be greatly missed.

We would like to thank the Sandstone community and the caring staff at Kelowna General Hospital, Chartwell Chatsworth Retirement Residence and Spring Valley Care Centre.

At Tom's request, no service will be held.