Pat,  I have been thinking about you and your family the weeks leading up Nolan's remembrance of his passing.  My heart still aches for all of you and wish that I could do something... anything to take your pain away.  Know that you are thought of so often and are loved so dearly! Love and Hugs Gloria, Ron and Oreo xxxooo 

I am deeply saddened to hear of Nolan's passing. I went to Rideau Park elementary school with Nolan from Grades 1 to 3. 
I was new to Canada, shy and my English wasn't very good, but Nolan befriended me and took me under his wing. I remember many happy recesses and lunch breaks playing tag together, and having a lot of fun as teammates on the Duggan soccer team.
You were kind, reflective and mature, and will forever be a fixture of my childhood memories. My tenderest condolences to Nolan's family.


I had the pleasure of working with Nolan at Alberta Blue Cross. 

We worked together on the staff newsletter and he was so easy-going and always in a bright mood. He was very easy to talk to and you just felt at ease and comfortable around him. 

There was an air of positivity and calmness around Nolan and I will remember that fondly. 

My sincerest condolences to Nolan's family and friends. 

I was so incredibly sad to hear of Nolan's passing. I had the pleasure of working with Nolan at Alberta Blue Cross and really enjoyed his sense of humour and his quick-to-laugh, laid back nature. As many others have said, he had an undeniable gift for connecting with anyone he interacted with and he had a way of making people feel right at home in his presence. I will miss his laugh and his ability to find the humour in any situation.  I will also miss his compassion and generosity, which he showed to all. He was a kind and sensitive soul and is gone far too soon. My sincere condolences to Nolan's loved ones. He will be sorely missed by many.

I first met Nolan while working together at Alberta Blue Cross. My desk was located in a shared office space where I worked along side three other colleagues. Nolan would pop by throughout the day to say hi to each of us, see how we were doing, ask us about our day or weekends, and invite us to come out for lunch. Being a new employee at the time, I found this quite special, you could see that this was something he had always done, regardless of who worked in that shared space. We could always count on his daily visits, where he'd share a joke and a smile, and check in on us. Although I only knew him a short time, I think this was a true testament to who he was as a person. He was incredibly kind, funny, and always thinking about those around him.  

My deepest condolence to his family and friends. 

I first met Nolan in high school, and we had numerous classes together over the years, as well as went on the IB Europe trip in grade 12. He was so friendly, confident, and had an easy sense of humour. My love and condolences to you all.

When I first moved to YEG, I started a job at Alberta Blue Cross. I was new to the city and didn't really know anyone. It was a cold and harsh winter, and I was starting to lose faith...but you made me feel welcome here. We spent our days joking on Skype and shared many after work beers and laughs.

I'll always remember our time together, although it may not have been long, it was meaningful. Rest in peace, my friend.


I met Nolan playing Dungeons & Dragons with mutual friends; such a pleasant and fun fellow to be introduced to. I enjoyed talking about hockey, especially the Oilers in between exploring towns and dungeons. I'll miss nerding out playing D&D late into the night with you.

I only knew him for a short while, but his presence in this physical world will be missed.

I have a lot of fond memories of Nolan, for a long time during university we would watch movies and have drinks almost every week. I think my favourite memory was one night, in the early morning after doing homework, I messaged Nolan and asked him if he was still up. To my surprise he still was, so we went to McDonalds at 2am, then watched a few movies. I will miss him.

I will remember Nolan for his strength of character and bright charisma. He maintained his kindness from childhood to adulthood, and I will remember the spark and excitement he had for so many topics.

I had the great honour to get to know and work with Nolan at WCB. Needless to say, we hit it off right away once we establish we both loved hockey, Particularly the Oilers. The day wouldn't start right unless we broke down a win/loss from the night before. I will miss those times but cherish them all the same.  

To Kaley and family, Tannis and I offer my sincerest condolences on the loss of Nolan.  Wishing you peace to bring comfort and the courage to face the days ahead and loving memories to forever hold in your hearts.

Thinking of you,
Zachary and Tannis

I came to know Nolan when he started dating my best friend, Kaley. I only had the pleasure of meeting him a few times, but during those times I came to know how caring, thoughtful and charismatic he was.

Kaley and Nolan meshed together so effortlessly and loved each other wildly.  Kaley, I am so sorry that your story was cut so short.

My deepest condolences to Nolan’s mother, father and sister. I can’t imagine the pain you are feeling. You lost an amazing son and brother way too soon. He will be greatly missed.

Our deepest condolences to  Pat, Glen, Amanda, Kaley and all those who knew and loved Nolan. 
Nolan was a unique young man, who was funny, compassionate, and loyal. Nolan was a wonderful friend to our son Scott, who will feel a huge void in his life now that he is gone.  Nolan truly cared for his family and friends which he demonstrated always. It was through Scott that we grew to know Nolan.  We met only a few times, but chatted occasionally through texting and those conversations will be missed. I will smile when I remember him, as I think he would want us to do. 

So sorry for your loss.  I was Nolan's supervisor when he worked for the Global Education Program, University of Alberta International.  He provided outreach and publicity for International Week, a program focused on raising awareness about global issues - you can count this among the many contributions Nolan made in his too short life.  I hope it is some comfort to know that Nolan has contributed to making the world a better place.

Kaley, my prayers are with you, your family and Nolan's family as you say goodbye to Nolan tomorrow - a young man who leaves behind an amazing gift of memories, laughter, warmth and a truly beautiful smile.  My thoughts are with you all in this sad time.  Take care and draw strength from those who love you.

I was very excited to meet this new young man in my daughter Kaley's life, especially when she told me she was "crazy about him"!  She sent me this photo of them both, I think this was one of the first photos I saw of him.

I sure WAS glad I was able to meet this incredible guy that loved my daughter so much, and made her laugh, and smile and was such a romantic soul.   
Nolan fit in with our family instantly, he just blended with our crazy personalities and sense of humour.  He loved Kaley so much and that cemented him into our lives.  His incredible romantic gestures touched my heart.

I cannot even begin to describe the pain I am feeling in my heart for my daughter who lost her soulmate. I wish I could somehow take all her pain away, I wish that so much. All I can do is to be here for her to comfort her as much as I can for as long as she needs.

For all the pain I feel, it cannot even compare to the pain Pat, Glenn and Amanda must be feeling. To me that is so unimaginable ....to lose someone so full of life, when he was just starting his own journey through this life.  My heart goes out to them immensely during this time.  I have shed a lot of tears this week thinking about losing a child so young.  It's a torture no parent should ever have to experience. 

Nolan, even though your time on this earth was shortened, I know you were a very special guy who was loved and respected by so many people who will miss you so very much!  You touched so many lives and made so many people smile and laugh.  Rest peacefully beautiful soul.....

We first met Nolan about 8 years ago through our mutual friends Brett and Scott.  We quickly became good friends and though our lives have changed drastically in the intervening years Nolan always went out of his way to make sure we remained well connected.  We will always remember the countless LAN parties, board game nights, movie marathons, all-night gaming sessions and staying up until 6 in the morning to watch live broadcasts of Korean E-sports streams.  His passion for these activities was infectious, we were always excited when Nolan would say that he'd be joining us as that would guarantee hours of laughter, friendly competition and great memories.  This sudden loss has impacted us deeply, but we will never forget the great positive impact Nolan had on our lives.  He will be dearly missed.

I had the pleasure of working with Nolan at Alberta Blue Cross. Like many others have said, Nolan was a natural conversationalist. His ability to connect with others through empathy and humour was truly special. Nolan was talented and always went above and beyond when it came to helping out his colleagues. As a result, he made a lasting impact on improving the health and wellness of those in his community. 

My deepest condolences to Nolan's loved ones. He will be missed. 

I was privileged to have met Nolan while I was part of the University of Alberta Debate Society. Nathan’s kindness, beautiful soul and smile will never be forgotten. I give my condolences to the entire family.

I had the pleasure of meeting Nolan in elementary school and growing up a few blocks away. Nolan had an infectious smile and was always so welcoming and kind. I am so sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends. 

I first met Nolan at a University of Alberta Debate Society meeting. His smile and positivity were infectious and he made me feel so welcome as a new member. I was fortunate to continue to spend time with him throughout my undergrad and call him my friend. He was a genuinely kind person who was so full of life and joy. My deepest condolences to Nolan's loved ones. You were a bright star and will be missed.

Dear Nolan, you will be remembered for your smile and always being in a positive spirit. Nolan sat two desks across from my cubicle. Just by pure chance, him and I walked in and out of the office so many times in the morning and in the evening at the same time. I used to hear him talking on the phone and he always sounded extremely cheerful, professional and courteous.  His happy energy level would cheer me up anytime I ran into him. It was wonderful having a light yet happy work acquaintance. Gone too soon but left his cheer for the world. Rest in peace at a better place. Prayers and thoughts for all the people who touched his heart and whose hearts he touched. Strength to all.

Nolan and I worked together at Alberta Blue Cross. My favourite memory of Nolan was being able to hear his phone conversations from across the office. Whoever was on the other end of that phone call was getting the absolute best, most engaged Nolan he could give them—seems like a good representation of how he lived his life. Missed by many. 

Nolan and I were "cube mates" at Alberta Blue Cross; sitting kitty corner to each other. Nolan's humour and perspective on things made coming into the office an absolute pleasure. 
And talented! Nolan could craft a story or a message like no other. His kindness and empathy in dealing with delicate situations made him so respected among us.
I feel so blessed to have worked with Nolan.  My sincerest condolences to his family and friends. He was very special.

My deepest condolences to Nolans Family and loved ones. I had the pleasure of working with him at Alberta Blue Cross, he was always so happy and friendly. We were able to work together on a few different things together even though we were in different departments, he had a great sense of humor and I will forever remember laughing our way through different projects! 

My deepest condolences to Kaley and Nolan's family.

I worked with Nolan when he was with WCB, and it didn't take me long to realize what a wonderful guy he was. He always had a smile on his face, and a twinkle in his eye. When Kaley told me they were dating, I let out a whoop and a holler in the coffee shop loud enough to draw a few stares. I didn't care. I was thrilled. I said: "Nolan is definitely Kaley-worthy!" And he was. They were soulmates. Theirs was a love story, if ever there was. I am heartbroken for her, and for Nolan's family, and for everyone who was lucky enough to call him a friend. God bless you, Nolan Sawatzky.

Nolan and I met in PR school at Grant MacEwan. He had an infectious warmth and openness with people that will stick with me forever. He was always so kind and ready to tell a good groaner of a joke when the time was right. He took feedback graciously from our instructors and always rose to the occasion to better himself. His integrity and open heart will be greatly missed. 

I am deeply shocked to hear of Nolan’s passing. I taught him almost 15 years ago at Harry Ainlay High School and I remember it like it was yesterday. Nolan lit up the room whenever he walked in. His sense of humour and love of life made teaching him so much fun. We talked about history and politics all the time - and he always had a take on things that was unique and interesting. The world is a dimmer place without him. 

I met Nolan when he moved into our building. His smile was contagious, as was his attitude and love of life.  He had said on a number of occasions, "hey Mark, let's get together for a drink and a games night!"  Of course, life gets busy, and it sadly never happened.  My heart melted the day I met Kaley's dog.  I never did get the opportunity to ask him if he wanted to sell me his bike in the storage downstairs, even. Last Sunday was wretchedly terrible.  It's affected my wife and I very much.  Though we have never met, Pat, Glenn, Amanda and Kaley, our thoughts and prayers are with you. If you need anything ever, we are in #302.  780 886 1124

I would like to offer my deepest condolences on your loss. Nolan and I started working at Alberta Blue Cross around the same time and although we worked in different departments we ended up sitting next to each other. He was quick to welcome me and soon became a friend. I will always remember his big smile , sense of humor and his great ability to laugh at himself. He made everyone feel comfortable and always made sure everyone was included. He was a great  colleague and wonderful friend.  He will truly be missed by many. 

Although I only had the pleasure of working with Nolan for a brief time, he was the kind of guy I could pop in on, share a sarcastic or humorous comment that would make us both laugh, and I would walk away feeling better. He liked to laugh, liked the positive, and I know his passing leaves a hole for many who knew him much better than I. My heart goes out to Kaley and family, and I hope you hold on to the good memories in your time of sorrow. 

Nolan was such a nice guy with the biggest smile and the most mesmerizing voice. When I first met him, that's how I would explain him. I didn't work with him directly but his office was close to mine at WCB. I would often stop by his desk and have a quick chat with him about his day. He was so easy to talk to, so kind, so genuine. My group would often bring him treats from the kitchen and it makes me smile to think about how happy and thankful he would be. 
My thoughts and prayers are with the Sawatzky family during this difficult time.

Nolan was the kind of person who could find common ground with anyone. He was so kind, caring and funny - always sharing clever jokes and witty comments. He was a great co-worker and friend, and he'll be deeply missed by all who knew him. 

 I had the pleasure of working with Nolan at Alberta Blue Cross. He was fun to work with, clever, witty  and had a great positive energy about him. Always with a big smile, big laugh and amazing attitude! He will be missed by all who knew and loved him. My sincerest and deepest condolences for the loss of such a wonderful young man.

I had the pleasure of working with Nolan in the Communications department at Alberta Blue Cross—and it really was an absolute pleasure. Nolan was great at what he did; he was a witty, entertaining and creative communicator. But what stood out the most was Nolan's ability to truly make a connection with everyone he encountered. Whether this was the Corporate Communications team, colleagues in other departments or clients, he made a lasting impact on everyone who knew him. Nolan will be missed by so many.

So truly sorry for your loss, there are no words.  I had the great pleasure of working alongside Nolan on many creative projects at Alberta Blue Cross that supported the health and wellbeing of our employees and always looked forward to our time together.  He was funny, kind, generous and brought great ideas to the table.  He made a sincere effort to always make people feel good and cared deeply.  He will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him.  Prayers and may he RIP.
Linda Crawford

My thoughts and prayers go out to your family. I had the pleasure of working with Nolan at WCB.  His quick smile and infectious laugh are two things I'll remember most about him.  He will be sadly missed.

It's so sad to hear of Nolan's passing. We were classmates at Macewan University, and I'll always remember his ferocious presentation style. He could really capture the attention of a room! I regret not getting to know him more closely, and send my deepest condolences to his family. RIP Nolan!

Nolan was such a kind and inquisitive soul. We worked together for too-short a time at WCB-Alberta. In that time he was quick to make friends and always found the positive. He had a brightness about him that could make small moments sparkle. Though Nolan has left us, his light still shines on those who had the pleasure to know him. We’ll miss you, Nolan. 

You will be missed cousin.  rest easy and hope to meet you one day again in the great beyond. 

I had the pleasure of knowing Nolan as a classmate, as a colleague, and as a friend. He was the most positive and most humble person I’ve ever met. His loss is felt so deeply by so many. He brought an energy to this world that can never be replaced. 

I worked with Nolan for a short time at WCB-Alberta, but it was long enough to create a lasting impression of a terrific guy who almost always had a smile on his face or a laugh to share. His kind and cheerful presence was missed by our team when he decided to move on in his career, so I know his loss is being felt so very deeply by his family, friends and all those who loved him.  My sincerest condolences to you. 

I had the pleasure of playing in the corporate challenge competition  for  Alberta Blue Cross with Nolan. Two years ago, it was raining, cold and miserable but the games still went on. Nolan kept our spirits up and as we were shivering in the cold, he made us forget about the bad weather and kept us laughing at his corny jokes and we won bronze!  He always had a smile, always stopped to say hello. That's the kind of person he was.  RIP Nolan. 

I worked with Nolan on a couple of projects when he was at Alberta Blue Cross. He was down to earth , sharp, and fun to work with. He touched a lot of people in his too short life. My sincerest condolences to the family.

Pat, Glenn, and Amanda... There are no words to describe how heartbroken we are for you all.  Sending prayers to you all... to give you comfort and peace during this most difficult time.  Here when you are ready to talk, be together in silence, or give you whatever you need to get through each upcoming day.   I love you so much!  Love and Hugs xxxooo Gloria and Ron Stroyek 

OBITUARY

Nolan Sawatzky

January 15, 1989 – May 31, 2020

Hainstock's Funeral Home & Crematorium

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