James "Jim" Edward Sawtell Obituary

It is with great sadness that we announce the death of James "Jim" Edward Sawtell (Ottawa, Ontario), born in Lashburn, Saskatchewan, who passed away at the Queensway Carleton Hospital on July 31, 2024, at the age of 90 after a severe but brief battle with pneumonia.
Jim grew up on the family farm near Neilburg, Saskatchewan. After receiving his Diploma in Agriculture from the School of Agriculture, he decided to upgrade his education. He attended the Southern Alberta School of Technology in Calgary, Alberta where he earned a diploma in Radio and Electronics. His career as an Electronic Technician started with CARDE (Canadian Armament Research and Development Establishment) in Quebec City. CARDE was a branch of DRB (Defence Research Board). From there Jim transferred to DRTE (Defence Research Telecommunications Establishment) in Ottawa. This was another branch of DRB. He was hired as an Electronic Technologist. He remained here until retirement June 29, 1992. During that time, the Government changed the name to CRC (Communication Research Centre) which was to be part of DOC (Department of Communication).
The highlight of his career was the opportunity to work with scientists, engineers, and other technologists designing the Canadian spacecrafts “Alouette”, “ISIS” and “Hermes”.
After retirement Jim (and Gerry) joined The Square Dance and Round Dance family where he enjoyed many hours of dancing, fun and friendship while promoting the activity. In 2018 he and his wife “Cuer Gerry” received the Trillium Merit Award, a prestigious provincial award.
Loving husband of Geraldine “Gerry” Sawtell for 32 years, Former husband, of Dawn Ross (mother of his children);
Devoted Father of Wayne Sawtell (Laila Sikking), Lyle Sawtell, Laura Sawtell (Ted Chirila);
Loving Grandfather of Maddie Chirila, Emily Chirila, Odin Sawtell, and Aurora Sawtell;
And Caring step-father to Brian Garbutt (Cheryl Bradley), and Karen Read
Cherished step grandfather to Caleigh Garbutt, Nicholas Read, and Natasha Read;
Beloved Brother of Cyril Sawtell (Jean), and predeceased by Brother Ken (Gloria).
Dear Brother-in-Law of James Henneberry (Lois) and Glenn Henneberry (Kathy – deceased)
Jim’s memory will always be cherished by his nieces, nephews, extended family and friends.
The family would like to thank the Queensway Carleton Hospital, ACE Unit (Acute Care for the Elderly) for caring for Jim in his final hours.
A Celebration of Life for Jim will be held at Stittsville United Church, Fernbank at Stittsville Main, Stittsville, Ontario on Saturday, August 10, 2024. Visitation at 10:00 a.m. followed by the service at 11:00 a.m. with a light lunch afterwards.
Interment to Stittsville United Church Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations to “The Queensway Carleton Hospital Foundation, Emergency Department Expansion” or a charity of your choice are appreciated.

A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, August 10th 2024 from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM at the Stittsville United Church (6255 Fernbank Road, Ottawa, Ontario K2S1X5).