Sawatzky, David (1917-1999)

Mennonite Brethren Herald obituary: 2000 Mar 31 p. 27

Birth date: 1917 Feb 21

text of obituary:

DAVID SAWATZKY

David Sawatzky of Abbotsford, B.C. passed away Nov. 30. He was born Feb. 21, 1917 to David and Anna Sawatzky at Aberdeen, Sask. At 19, he accepted Christ; 4 months later, he was baptized. In 1941 he left the family farm to attend Hepburn (Sask.) Bible School. Here he met Tena Loewen. They married Nov. 3, 1942. Conscripted, he became a conscientious objector. While at a forestry camp in Banff, Alta., he led a co-worker to the Lord. After a year, he was released to work on the farm again. In 1946 they moved to the Fraser Valley. He farmed 5 acres on Sumas Prairie while doing custom farm work. He worked for 35 years at the Pacific Milk plant, where he held several positions, bringing a commitment to excellence to each one. He and Tena became charter members of Central Heights MB Church, later serving as deacons. He sang in the choir and later in the male chorus. The family loved to travel. He enjoyed photography, taking many pictures of mountain scenes and wildlife, and woodworking, producing many pieces of carefully crafted furniture. In 1976 Tena was diagnosed with Parkinson's; he faithfully cared for her until her death in 1984. Later that year, he met and married Mary Wiebe. They travelled extensively in their motorhome. Together they nurtured many relationships with family and friends. Predeceased by Tena and a sister, he is mourned by Mary; children Melvin, Orlando and Debbie Dick; stepchildren Walter, Rudy and Bill; 8 grandchildren; 1 great-grandson; and 2 sisters. The funeral was Dec. 6 in Central Heights MB Church, Abbotsford, with Nick Dyck, Jake Tilitzky and Chris Douglas ministering.