Obituary of Willard Milton SAWYER

March 11, 1922 – August 27, 2011 Willard Milton Sawyer passed away peacefully at Foothills Medical Centre on Saturday, August 27th in Calgary. Will was an amazing and proud husband of the late Ann Sawyer; father of Diane, Donna (Steve) and Robert; and grandfather to Donna (Mike) Widdifield and her children Kara, Kurtis and Kendra; Debbie (Andy) Miljak, and her daughter Samantha; Scott Peake, Stan (Maria) Peake, and son Chase; and sister (Auntie Sis) Dolores Stiles. He was predeceased by his brothers, Gordon, Glenn, Murvin, and Kenneth. Will was a Bomb Aimer with the RCAF in World War II on the Lancaster, and later became Squadron Leader. He worked in the Calgary Construction industry when he returned home. He was most proud of his work with the Calgary Construction Association. He played semi-pro softball and even represented Canada in Texas. Will loved all sports, played golf and tennis, was a formidable table tennis and curling opponent. He also was deeply involved in Dale Carnegie and Toastmasters, even competing in the United States. Will was often asked to speak at events long into his retirement. Three years ago, he co-wrote with his brother, Glenn—their book called “The River Rats Came Home” which many of you have seen. He has spent the last year selling his book at two downtown Second Cup Coffee franchises and he recently attended the Art Smith Museum, affiliated with the Aerospace Museum and he is also a member of the Air Crew Association. He was invited recently for a book signing by Indigo Book Sales downtown and at the Vintage Sports Car Club (upcoming in October). He personally sold over 1,000 books, travelling by city bus, Handi-bus, or taxi, proudly wearing his old uniform and talking to everyone along the way. Funeral Services will be held at McINNIS & HOLLOWAY’S Crowfoot Chapel (82 Crowfoot Circle N.W.), on Thursday, September 1, 2011 at 2:00 p.m. You may forward condolences through www.mcinnisandholloway.com. In Lieu of flowers contributions may be made to the charity of your choice. Thank you to the staff at the Foothills Hospital for their care and compassion. In living memory of Willard Sawyer, a tree will be planted at Big Hill Springs Park Cochrane by McINNIS & HOLLOWAY FUNERAL HOMES, Crowfoot Chapel, 82 CROWFOOT CIRCLE N.W. Telephone: (403) 241-0044.