Clifford Elmer Sawyer

Clifford Elmer Sawyer graduated to be with his Savior Jesus Christ on October 27, 2024. He lived here on earth just shy of 99 years. Clifford, born on November 8, 1925, was the youngest son of Clifford and Blanche(Levitt) Sawyer His dad died when Cliff was 4 and he was raised by mom. He graduated from Pillsbury Military Academy in Owatonna and then onto the University of MN with a degree in electrical engineering. He was married June5, 1948 to Phyllis Ione Budish and they had two sons, Charles, and David.

Electrical engineering did not suit Cliff so he went into the family business Sawyer Cleator Lumber; started by his grandfather, and served as president until 1989. Cliff had a great faith and desire to serve. He was an elder at Olivet Baptist church, on the BOD at Maranatha Nursing home, Hospitality House, Guardian Angels Nursing home as well as involved with Northwestern University in St. Paul. He and Phyllis retired to Park Rapids on Potato Lake in 1991. There he was most active with now Faithbridge Church, the Gideons, and Conservation Club. Phyllis died September 27, 2003. Cliff married Doris Klingenberg on July 17, 2005 and gained 3 stepdaughters and a stepson as well as many grandchildren and great grandchildren. He and Doris enjoyed lake life, their church, and many activities at their Summerhill apt in town. Doris died on July 22, 2023.

Throughout life Cliff had a passion for the woods, canoeing the boundary waters, swimming, and downhill skiing. He loved to take down a dead tree, cut it up and split it for his wood heating. His blueberry pancakes on the wood stove were everyone’s favorite. He always had advice for gardening and animal identification, especially on long walks in the woods.

He is survived by sons; Charles Sawyer (Kathy) of Grand Marais, MN; David Sawyer (Pamela) of Champlin, MN, six grandchildren, 4 (almost 5) great grandchildren and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by first wife Phyllis, second wife, Doris, parents Clifford & Blanche, and brothers Marshall and Arba.

A celebration of life will by held at 10am Friday December 6, 2024 at Edinbrook Church, Brooklyn Park. In lieu of flowers, donations to Gideons International are appreciated.