Kent Sawyer

Elvin "Kent" Sawyer, 79, peacefully fell asleep in death on July 4, 2016. A fitting day for a man who so deeply valued his independence. Kent was born at his grandparents home in Shelley, Idaho on July 17, 1936 to Elvin Hershel Sawyer and Irene Violet Kump Sawyer. In his early life Kent was raised and influenced by his grandparents, Tillie and James Rolph. He developed his strong work ethic at a very early age by working in the beet and potato fields at six years of age. There were many happy memories spent in Shelley, especially with his cousin and lifelong friend, Tom Mitchell. At ten years of age, Kent moved to Pocatello with his mother and stepfather, Jay Rolph. He had four younger sisters, Judy, Billie Gay, Ronda and Colleen. Kent attended the area schools and would often say he graduated on the pool tables at Lee Aikens Sport Shop. Choosing to put his education on hold, he started working for Morrison-Knudsen at age 16. He later went on to get his diploma at age 35. Kent met and fell in love with Beth Anne Judkins. They were married on his eighteenth birthday. Everyone said they were too young and it wouldn't last. Appropriately, their love song was "Too Young" by Nat King Cole. Their marriage lasted 62 years. Kent and Beth raised three beautiful daughters, Shelly, Suzanne and Sabrina. Kent had a very fun droll sense of humor. He followed no fashion trends but his own. He often wore his signature pinstriped bibbed overalls, a plaid flannel shirt, waffle stomper boots and one of his favorite hats. Kent loved a beautiful smile! All of his children and grandchildren have attractive straight teeth from his generosity. We will always be grateful for his gift of a beautiful smile! An avid sportsman, Kent was happiest hunting and fishing with friends and family. Jack Rose, Dave Pitcher and his grandchildren were his favorite fishing buddies. Kent had a long career with the Union Pacific Railroad starting in 1953. He eventually became a locomotive engineer and retired in 1996. He enjoyed his retirement years working in his yard, feeding the birds and squirrels. He relished camping, boating and spending time outdoors with his wife and daughters. Kent loved to walk his neighborhood and was always watching out for his neighbors, they called him the "Sheriff" and appreciated his efforts. We will always appreciate what a wonderful provider and hard worker Kent was. He showed us how deeply he cared for his family. His grandchildren, Jared, Amy, Eric, Amanda, Kristopher, Rebekah and Sarah will never forget what a terrific story teller their grandpa was. Kent especially enjoyed spending time with his 6 great-grandchildren. We will forever carry his memory in our hearts. Out of respect for Kent's wishes there will not be a funeral service. A small family memorial will be held at a later date. A very special thank you to his caregiver, Allison, for her care and affection.

No services to be held





Christ Church

1245 N. Arthur Ave.

Pocatello

ID

83204