Edward L. “Ted” Sawyer Jr., a longtime resident of Cleveland, passed away peacefully on October 25, 2025, at the age of 92.
Born on July 5, 1933, in Boston, Massachusetts, Ted was the son of the late Edward L. Sawyer and Helen (Donovan) Sawyer. He graduated cum laude from Princeton University with a Bachelor of Arts degree in History.
Ted began his career in investment banking in New York City. He later moved to Cleveland and in the early 1980s established his own firm, the Edgewater Group, specializing in corporate finance, mergers and acquisitions. Among his peers, he quickly earned a reputation for his toughmindedness, fairness, and tireless dedication – qualities that defined his long and distinguished career.
During his years in New York, Ted met his first wife, the late Dorothy (Massie) Sawyer. Together they settled in Ohio, where they raised their son, Alexander. Despite Ted’s demanding professional life, he always prioritized summers on Cape Cod, a cherished family tradition. Those summers, spent with family, were where he shared his love for the sea with his son Alexander, a theme that endured throughout Ted’s life.
Later, Ted met and married his second wife, Clare (Fooshee) Sawyer, with whom he shared many happy and fulfilling years. Their lives were rich with travel and a shared appreciation for literature, art and culture.
Sailing was a lifelong passion for Ted, who was never far from the water. A well-respected skipper and competitor, Ted raced Dragon class sailboats at the highest levels well into his 80s. Among fellow sailors, he was admired for his intuition on the water and his tactical acumen. Ever the student of the sport, Ted read countless books to perfect his race strategies and technical skills. Being on the water brought Ted immense joy—whether racing on distant seas, cruising on the coast of Maine or simply spending an afternoon on Lake Erie.
Ted’s hearty laugh and thoughtful advice endeared him to all who knew him. He was a man of profound intellect and generosity, always willing to share his time, insights, and good humor with others. He was rarely seen without a book in his hand or classical music playing in the background. Above all, Ted was most proud of his family—especially the accomplishments of his grandchildren, whom he loved dearly. He treasured every chess game, conversation, application review, musical moment, afternoon in the park, and shared memory.
Ted is survived by his beloved wife, Clare; his son Alexander and daughter-in-law Marlyse, and their children, Colette, Celine, and Charles. He is also survived by Clare’s children, Chris Childres and his wife Vicky, and their children, Cole, Gus, and Laney; Nat Childres and his children, Sasha and Cara; and by his loving sister, Penny, and her family. He was predeceased by his brother, David.
Ted will be remembered for his insightfulness, wit, and kindness—a man who treasured his family, loved the sea, and inspired all who knew him.
In lieu of flowers, those wishing to honor Ted's legacy can make a donation to the Cleveland Orchestra (clevelandorchestra.com). A celebration of Ted’s life will be held at Pier W, 12700 Lake Avenue, Lakewood, OH 44107, on November 29th from 1-3pm.
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