Obituaries

Laverne Arthur Sawin beloved husband, father, and grandfather, passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family on August 12, 2025 at the age of 84.

Born in Coronach, Saskatchewan, on December 4, 1940, he lived a life defined by love, hard work, and an unwavering devotion to his family. On February 21, 1970, a cold Saturday night in the Bengough Bar, Laverne started courting the love of his life, Cynthia Gee. Laverne didn’t waste any time, and on June 13, 1970, they married and built a home filled with warmth, laughter, and enduring memories.

In 1970, Laverne moved to Minton, Saskatchewan, where he worked at the Saskatchewan Wheat Pool elevator. In 1973, Laverne and Cynthia purchased the local grocery store in Minton. They ran the store in Minton for 19 years and became active members of the community. Laverne was a member of the Minton Elks, and his portrayal of “Sheriff Tinfoil” in the annual Minton Dinner Theatre was legendary. Summers were often spent camping and fishing with family and friends all across Saskatchewan. In 1989, Laverne switched careers and began hauling trailers across North America, moving his family to Regina, Saskatchewan. Laverne enjoyed life on the road, and his entrepreneurial spirit led him to start Sawin’s Pilot Service. Laverne was very meticulous in planning routes for the loads he piloted across North America. He could tell you every low bridge or hazard in every province or state.

Laverne is reunited with his mother Marie; his father Leonard; his grandfather Ross and grandmother Josephine, who raised Laverne after his parents’ passing; and his sister Louise.

Laverne is survived by his wife of 55 years Cynthia; his children, whom he was so proud of De-Nette, Sherrie (Ryan), and Trent; his sister Mary (Merlyn); his brother Bernard; he was an adoring grandfather to Courtney (Evan), Brady, and Zayden, who brought him immense joy; as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

A man of quiet strength and deep integrity, Laverne’s legacy will live on through the lessons he taught, the stories he shared, his quick wit and the love he gave so freely. He will be remembered for his kindness, his steady guidance, and the special way he made each person in his life feel valued.

A Come-and-Go Social to share memories of Laverne will be held at the Bengough Drop-in Centre on Main Street in Bengough, Saskatchewan on Thursday, August 21, 2025 between 1:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, the family encourages donations in Laverne’s memory to a charity of your choice.

Laverne will be deeply missed and forever remembered in the hearts of those who loved him.