Larry Sawatzki, 76, of Surprise, Arizona, passed away peacefully on June 14, 2025 after a battle with cancer.

Larry was born on October 7th, 1948, to Leo and Lorraine Sawatzki (Tritz) in Omaha, Nebraska. A graduate of Creighton Preparatory School in 1966, Larry went on to serve in the U.S. Navy from 1968 until 1972. It was during his military service that he discovered his interest in air traffic control, and this was the beginning of his career with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)

In the summer of 1967, Larry met the love of his life, Kay Brown. They were married in December 1969 and began a life filled with love, resilience, and adventure. Together, they moved from Hawaii to Maine, and back to Nebraska, and then made their home in Sherman, Texas. Along the way, they welcomed three children: sons John Edward and Richard Cory, and daughter Katherine Marie Sawatzki.

Larry's first air traffic controller position was in Omaha, but he moved the family to begin working in the tower at the Kansas City Municipal Airport, where he also served as an active member of the PATCO Union until 1981. Following his departure from the FAA, Larry pursued a new direction, attending electronics school before starting a new career at Texas Instruments. He eventually transitioned into a long-term position at MEMC Southwest, where he worked for 26 years before retiring in September 2008.

In his retirement, he and his wife spent many years traveling in an RV, volunteering at State Parks in the summer and enjoying winters in South Padre Island, Texas. In 2018, Larry and Kay settled in Surprise, Arizona, where Larry spent his time playing golf, watching Nebraska football, woodcarving, and enjoying the activities his community had to offer.

Above all else, Larry was devoted to his family. His greatest pride came from being a husband, father, and grandfather. Those who knew him remember a man of integrity, kindness, and strength. The kind of husband, father, and friend they hope to have in their life.

Larry was predeceased by his parents, Leo and Lorraine Sawatzki (Tritz), and his brother Leo Anthony Sawatzki. He is survived by his beloved wife, Kay; his sons John (Cherryl) and Cory (Sandy) Sawatzki; his daughter, Katie Sawatzki; his brother, Leonard (Doreen Tribou) Sawatzki; his sisters, Laura (John) Ash and LouAnn (Bill) Cook; his Sister-In-Law Linda Sawatzki (Gardner); and his cherished three grandchildren.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Team Jack Foundation or the American Cancer Society. A celebration of Larry's life will be held in Surprise Arizona on October 11th.

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