Sven Westermann

Sven Ivar Westermann, 80, passed away unexpectedly on February 11, 2026, at home in Old Saybrook, Connecticut. He was the beloved husband of Linda Carlson Westermann. They celebrated 38 years of marriage on January 23rd while on their annual trip to Florida. He was the love of her life, her best friend, and meant the absolute world to her.

Sven was born in Boston on September 21, 1945, to Helge and Sonia (Cannata) Westermann. Raised in Manhattan, Sven attended the Collegiate School for Boys, where he earned his high school diploma. In 1964, he studied at La Universidad Complutense de Madrid in Spain. Sven proudly served in the United States Army from 1966 to 1972 and was deployed to Vietnam during the war. After returning from Vietnam, he attended New York University, earning a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and English.

Following a long career as a licensed building contractor, and with the encouragement of his wife, Sven pursued his true passion, education. He returned to school and earned a master’s degree in history and education from Southern Connecticut State University at the age of 51.

After earning his teaching certificate, Sven taught for several years at Mount Saint John’s School for Boys. He later taught at Cheshire Correctional Institution and then at the Janet B. York Correctional Institution in Niantic, Connecticut, where he made a lasting and positive impact on the lives of many inmates before retiring.

Sven was a man of many talents and passions. He enjoyed cooking, traveling with his wife, practicing tai chi, reading, concocting home remedies, and pursuing countless other interests. An avid birdwatcher, he especially enjoyed sitting on the back porch with his wife, taking in the variety of wildlife in their yard.

In addition to his devoted wife, Linda, he leaves behind his stepdaughter, Kristin McLaughlin (Michael) of Old Saybrook; his stepson, Gregory Brady (Alison) of Bend, Oregon, both of whom he lovingly considered his own; his grandsons, Zachary Miller and Grayson McLaughlin of Old Saybrook; his brother, Christian Westermann (Carolyn); his niece and nephew, Charlotte and Anders; his niece Emilie Dobinson (Phil), their children, and his favorite aunt Ellen of Boston, Massachusetts. He also leaves behind numerous friends from all over the world. Sven was predeceased by his mother, Sonia; his father, Helge; and his sister, Flavia.

The location, date, and time of Sven’s Celebration of Life Service will be announced at a later date. Arrangements are in the care of Robinson, Wright & Weymer Funeral Home in Centerbrook.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in memory of Sven to the Old Saybrook Ambulance Association.