Timothy James Sawyer, age 77, of Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan, passed peacefully at home Saturday evening, January 4, 2025. He was born on January 2, 1948, in Mexico City, Missouri, to James and Margaret (Cadenbach) Sawyer.
Tim graduated from Flushing High School. Upon graduation, he was drafted into the United States Army where he was a Combat Engineer in the Americal Division, serving in Chu Lai, Vietnam. He was awarded the National Defense Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Army Commendation Medal, and Good Conduct Medal. After serving his country, he earned his psychology degree from Northern Michigan University. He then went on to obtain his PhD in experimental psychology from the University of Nevada. He began teaching at Lake Superior University in 1976, until his retirement in 2001. He thoroughly enjoyed the many students he taught and mentored throughout his career.
Tim valued his family more than anything. He spent many wonderful years with his wife Connie prior to her passing in 2007. He enjoyed his weightroom and daily walks, working in his shop on projects, and using his tractors on the property with his family.
Tim is survived by his sons, Daniel (Sandy) Sawyer and James Sawyer; grandson, Terek Sawyer, all of Sault Ste. Marie; daughter, Michelle (Jay) Rendon; sister, Esther Sawyer of Flushing; grandsons, Derek (Jordann), Adam (Gabrielle), Jacob (Annaleis) Jennings all of Davison, Michigan; and six great-grandchildren.
Tim was preceded in death by his wife, Connie, after 38 years of marriage; parents, James and Margeret; sister, Susan Robinson; and beloved brother, James “Sandy” Sawyer.
Per Tim’s wishes no formal service or funeral will be held. There will be a private family Celebration of Life at a later date.
Family Life Funeral Homes assisted the family with arrangements. Condolences may be left to the family at www.familylifefh.com.
