David William Sawtelle

ORLANDO, Fla. – David William Sawtelle, 82, of Orlando, Fla., and Winslow, passed away peacefully after a brief illness on May 26, 2025, with his dear daughter Sophie at his side. Born on Nov. 1, 1942, son to Harlan C. Sawtelle and Beatrice A. Sawtelle, raised in Winslow. David was a devoted father and brother to his family. David’s love for his family and good humor will live on in the hearts and minds of his friends and family and all that knew him.

He is survived by his daughter Sophie Pauline Sawtelle, son Jason David Sawtelle, his sister, Eleanor “Hona” Sawtelle-Longstaff and her husband Bruce Lewis and many nieces, nephews and brothers-in-law that all brought him great joy and laughter. Preceded in death and missed by David are his parents Harlan C. Sawtelle and Beatrice A. Sawtelle, his sisters Barbara Michaud of Benton, Pauline “Polly” White of Vassalboro, Peggy Michaud of Winslow, his brothers Frederick “Freddie” Sawtelle of Jasper, Ala., Ralph “Patty” Sawtelle of Turrell, Ark.

After graduating from Winslow High School in 1961, David joined the USMC. After serving his country, David returned to his beloved State of Maine and opened “The Big Ten Pizza” in Farmington. After several years running his business, David sold the business and moved to Portland. The cold winters of Maine convinced David to move to where the winters are warm in Orlando, Florida, where he resided until his passing. He made many trips back to Maine to visit family and friends.

David will be remembered for his love of family, the beautiful beaches of Florida and spending precious time with his daughter Sophie. Wherever David was he had the gift to make everyone laugh and his friends and family will deeply miss his presence and lively spirit. All his nieces and nephews and family were always excited to visit Uncle David and of course go to Disney World where David was a great host.

To sum up David’s life, he was a good man and will be sadly missed. The many memories we made with David will be cherished until we meet again.

A military burial at Cape Canaveral National Cemetery will be held at a later date with details to be announced.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Pet Alliance of Greater Orlando.