In Loving Memory of
LARRY SAWA

With profound sadness, we share the news of the passing of a truly gentle, kind, and loving soul. Larry departed from this world peacefully on April 27, 2024, surrounded by his loving family, after a valiant and dignified battle with cancer.

Larry’s life was a testament to his strength and grace, facing his challenges without ever uttering a word of complaint. His gratitude towards his medical team was immense, as they stood by him in his courageous fight.

He leaves behind a legacy of love and devotion, survived by his cherished wife of 48 years, Wanda; his sons, Kevin (Gail) and Scott; and his adored granddaughter, Lux, who was the light of his life. His memory will also be treasured by his brother Jim Sawa; sister Gladys Micklash and her family; sisters-in-law Wendy (Dan) Rogocki and Jacqueline (Ray) Hope and their families; brothers-in-law Brad Meneer and Greg Kunderman; and many nieces and nephews with whom he had close relationships. Larry also leaves behind many extended family and lifelong friends.

Larry was predeceased by his beloved granddaughter Cordelia; grandson Aspin; sister-in-law Eileen Sawa; sister-in-law Cheryl Meneer; brother-in-law Gregg Meneer; brother-in-law Ken Micklash; his parents, John and Jean Sawa; and his parents-in-law, Harvey and Joye Meneer. Larry’s spirit will reunite with them in a place of peace and rest.  

Born and raised in Winnipeg’s North End, Larry’s career spanned various roles. His most memorable working days were at Morrison School as a dedicated custodian with the Seven Oaks School Division, where he loved interacting with the children. He also spent several years as a successful furniture salesman and a skilled taxidermist. 

Retiring at 60 due to health concerns, Larry enjoyed 12 years of retirement, during which he and his son Scott ran the canteen at the West St. Paul Curling Club. His passion for cooking and the camaraderie he shared with club members and visitors turned many into lifelong friends.

Family was the cornerstone of Larry’s world. He was the unwavering support that uplifted us all, the “wind beneath our wings.” His culinary talents were legendary. Wanda was the envy of her colleagues, as she hardly ever came home without supper on the table. Larry was a big hit at Seven Oaks Hospital, often surprising Wanda’s colleagues with his delicious cinnamon buns.

Larry’s sons were his absolute pride and joy, and he cherished every opportunity to be near them. His bond with his daughter-in-law Gail was exceptionally close. Gail’s siblings, Frank (Nicole) and Emilie (Sloan), were embraced as part of Larry’s family.

The arrival of his granddaughter, Lux, in June 2022, brought immense joy to Larry’s life. Their special bond, marked by their adorable head bump greeting, brought the brightest smiles to his face.

An animal lover at heart, Larry’s grand-dog, Monty and grand-nephew, Knuckles loved to cuddle up with him on his favourite chair. Larry’s happiest moments were spent at the family cottage near Lac Du Bonnet, fondly known as “Larry’s Lair.” His favourite activity was sitting at the end of his dock, fishing. Boats congregated in front of his dock, after seeing him catch fish after fish. Wanda knew there was no hole out front where the fish were hiding. At times, she said, laughing, “if you sat out here as much as he does, you’d catch fish too!”

Larry’s infectious humor and magnetic personality made every gathering memorable. He instilled in his family a deep appreciation for holidays and family traditions. 

Larry’s green thumb brought beauty to his garden and extended to a magnificent pumpkin patch, which was his pride and joy each fall. He delighted in nurturing the pumpkins to impressive sizes, often showcasing the largest ones to family and friends. His sons, Kevin and Scott, sold these autumnal treasures at the end of the driveway, a tradition that brought the community together and filled Larry with immense pride. 

These cherished moments are a testament to Larry’s love for nature and his knack for creating joy in the simplest of things.

Larry was also the family’s unofficial bargain hunter, with a keen eye for spotting the best deals in the weekly grocery flyers. He approached each flyer with the precision of a detective on a case, always ready to sniff out a sale. His sons would often joke that Larry could spot a discount on canned beans from a mile away. His frugality wasn’t just about saving a few dollars; it was a sport, and Larry was the undefeated champion. Whether it was a two-for-one deal on ketchup or a steep discount on steak, Larry’s excitement was contagious, and his knack for nabbing bargains became a beloved quirk that brought laughter to those around him.

Living a life he considered fit for a King, Larry was content and grateful for every moment. His wisdom and life lessons are invaluable gifts that will continue to guide us.

In accordance with Larry’s wishes, cremation has taken place. A private family gathering will be held to celebrate his remarkable life. Larry’s kindness and laughter have left an indelible mark on our hearts, and though he will be dearly missed, his spirit will forever be a part of us.

Larry’s family would like to express their profound gratitude to the medical professionals and support staff who provided care and comfort throughout his journey. Special thanks are extended to the teams on 2W at Deer Lodge Hospital, Grace Emergency, and 5 North, whose dedication and compassion will always be remembered.

We reserve our deepest appreciation for Dr. Gary Bellan, Dr. Biniam Kidane, Dr. S. Banerji, Dr. Janine Johnston, Dr. Alastair Brown, and Dr. Tyler Friesen. Their expertise and empathy were beacons of hope and solace for Larry and his loved ones.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that those wishing to honour Larry’s memory may consider making a donation to CancerCare Manitoba or a charity that holds personal significance to you.

As we bid farewell to a man who cherished the simple joys of life, we share a poem that captures the essence of Larry’s spirit:

GONE FISHING

I’ve finished life’s chores assigned to me,

So put me on a boat headed out to sea.

Please send along my fishing pole

For I’ve been invited to the fishin’ hole.

Where every day is a day to fish,

To fill your heart with every wish.

Don’t worry, or feel sad for me,

I’m fishin’ with the Master of the sea.

We will miss each other for awhile,

But you will come and bring your smile.

That won’t be long you will see,

Till we’re together you and me.

To all of those that think of me,

Be happy as I go out to sea.

If others wonder why I’m missin’

Just tell ’em I’ve gone fishin’.

Larry’s family kindly requests that all of his friends and relatives take a few minutes to honour his memory by watching the photo-biography above. Please, also consider sharing your own photos, memories, and stories by making use of the comment section on this page.

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ETHICAL DEATH CARE

Cremation & Life Celebrations

530 St. Mary Avenue - Winnipeg

204-421-5501 - www.ethicaldeathcare.com

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