John Evan Sawyer

John Evan Sawyer March 23, 1937 - April 7, 2017 It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our father, husband and friend, John Evan Sawyer. John, son of Thomas James Sawyer and Gladys Veronica Sawyer (Lewis) was born in Hamilton, Ontario and spent his teenage years in Victoria, BC. John studied violin in the first undergraduate B.Mus. cohort at the University of British Columbia, and it was here that he fell in love with Elaine, the gifted pianist who agreed to collaborate on his senior recital. After completing his studies, John returned to UBC where he taught music history to many students. His special interests included the Baroque Era, Performance Practices, music for the English Lyra-Viols, and George Frederick Handel. John was a founding member of the Pacific Baroque Orchestra and played violin in the ensemble for nearly 20 years. He also helped to establish Early Music Vancouver's Summer Workshops at UBC. After retiring from teaching, developed an interest in wood turning. Ever the perfectionist, he prided himself on creating beautiful objects on his lathe for his family and friends. He also loved to spend time at his beloved cabin in Glacier, WA where his family and friends spent many happy hours. John is survived by his wife, Elaine, daughters Andrea (Alfred) Kleinschmidt, Nadene (Michael) Gurulé, and Deavah (Brad) Yerxa, by his grandsons Benjamin and Sidney, and by his sisters Diane Leitch and Jacquie Hunt. A celebration of John's life will be held at The View, 2121 Lonsdale Ave, North Vancouver BC, on May 7th at 4:00 pm.