Dean Alan Sawa

Dean Alan Sawa passed away unexpectedly in Lethbridge, Alberta on Monday, September 9th, 2024, at the age of 54 years.

Dean is survived by his beloved companion; Charmaine Zucchiatti, Charmaine’s daughters; Patience (Scott) Lea and Kaylee Zucchiatti, and two grandsons; Brodie and Tate. He is also survived by his sister; Susan (Garnet) Lanz and brother; Glen (Tammy) Sawa, and his nieces; Marie (Steven) Lanz, Amber Walsh, Shaelee Sawa and Shelby Sawa. He was predeceased by his parents; Dick and Carol Sawa.

Dean grew up in the small town of Picture Butte, Alberta with a large number of cousins and extended family. After high school, he went to college to study meat cutting. Over the years, this evolved into the manager position at Safeway. He was part of the Safeway family for 25 years.

He met his beloved companion Char through his career of meat cutting. Together, they enjoyed watching her two daughters grow and later welcomed Scott and two grandsons, Brodie and Tate – who called him “Papa Dean.” Being “Papa Dean” was his biggest joy in life. His family and friends were the center of his happiness, which also included cheering for the Oilers, going quadding, and spoiling the kids. He loved golfing on his trips to Vernon to visit Char’s family as well as his Annual Sawa Family Golf Tournament.

Dean was a happy, go-lucky person who loved to visit with friends, family and acquaintances. He lit up every room he entered and everyone who met him loved him immediately. He will be forever remembered for his unique and boisterous laugh and his outgoing personality.

A Memorial Service will be held on Thursday, September 19, 2024, at 4:30 pm at the Croatian Centre of Lethbridge, 3794 - 30 Street North, Lethbridge. Casual attire is welcomed, please wear your favorite sports jersey, hat or shirt.

*PLEASE NOTE THE CHANGE OF VENUE*