Charles Norton Sawyer

 It is with a heavy heart that we announce the unexpected passing of Charles Norton "Nort" Sawyer, a beloved family patriarch, esteemed engineer, and cherished community member, who passed away on March 22, 2025, at the age of 97 in Burlington, Massachusetts. Born on December 15, 1927, in Portland, Maine to the late Charles Augustus and Helen Norton Sawyer, Nort's life was characterized by his loving nature, friendly demeanor, and intelligent approach to every endeavor.

Nort was predeceased by his beloved wife of 71 years, Gloria Lane Rose, the love of his life. His legacy continues through his children: Charles Norton Sawyer Jr. and his wife Patty of Charlottesville, VA, Dr. Daniel Sawyer and his wife Donna of Scottsville, VA, Cheryl Krisko and her husband Rich of Beverly, MA, Dana Sawyer of Naples, ME, Julie O'Brien and her husband Kevin of Topsfield, MA, and Laurie Hunt and her husband Tim of Essex, MA. He was a proud grandfather to 16 grandchildren and 39 great-grandchildren, who will carry forward the values and zest for life that he instilled in them.

A proud veteran, Nort honorably served in the United States Navy during World War II. Following his service, he pursued his passion for engineering at the University of Maine, Orono, graduating with a degree that would lay the foundation for a long and successful career. For over 30 years, he dedicated himself as a General Foreman at Sylvania, where his leadership and expertise were invaluable.

Nort's entrepreneurial spirit led him to become the owner and manager of Master's TV, a business that not only served the community but also reflected his personal love for technology and innovation. His professional achievements were matched by his active involvement in local associations, where he made lasting contributions and built enduring friendships.

Sports were a cornerstone of Nort's life, as he delighted in both watching and participating in baseball, football, golf, and tennis. His competitive yet playful spirit shone through in his love for card and board games, and he was a long-time bridge player, a pastime that brought him joy and camaraderie. In his later years, Nort found pleasure in completing intricate 1000-piece puzzles, which he would frame and gift to his family, a testament to his meticulousness and generosity.

Nort and Gloria could always be seen on the dance floor moving effortlessly around the room especially when songs from the 1950s came on the radio.

Nort's passion for travel was evident in his love for cruising, having embarked on over 19 cruises, exploring the world and creating memories that he would fondly recount. He especially loved ballroom dance cruises. He split his time between Fort Myers, Florida and Naples, Maine, with a special affection for Trickey Pond, where he spent his summers throughout his life, basking in the serenity of nature and the warmth of family gatherings. 

His last decade of life he resided at Brooksby Village in Peabody where he could be found at the Treasure Chest, weight room, or tooting around on his scooter.  He loved the warmth and community he found there. Special thank you to Lee and Hubert for their assistance this past year. He especially looked forward to his “exercise” sessions with Nancy Broughton.

As someone who embraced life's simple pleasures, Nort's presence was a source of comfort and joy to those around him. In the words of Ralph Waldo Emerson, "To know even one life has breathed easier because you have lived. This is to have succeeded." Nort's life was indeed a grand success, marked by the love he shared and the lives he touched.

Nort's story is one of triumphs and challenges, laughter and love, a narrative woven into the fabric of his family's history. He will be remembered as a loving husband, a guiding father, an adoring grandfather, and a great-grandfather, whose wisdom will continue to guide future generations.

As we bid farewell to Charles Norton "Nort" Sawyer, we celebrate a life lived with purpose and kindness. His legacy will endure in the hearts of those who knew him and in the positive impact he made on his community and beyond.

Services will be held at a later date. Expressions of sympathy may be made to Trickey Pond Environmental Protection Agency @ TPEPA, PO Box 417, Naples, ME 04055 or at https://www.trickeypond.org/join. see the link below

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