Kenn William Sawmiller

Kenn W. Sawmiller, age 71 of Defiance, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his family on Thursday, April 20, 2023.  
  
He was born in Shelby County, Ohio to the late William and Doris (Burmeister) Sawmiller on November 26, 1951. Kenn proudly served our country in the U.S. Navy for 23 years and was awarded the Defense Meritorious Service Medal. On November 12, 1976 he married Cindy Brandt, who survives. 
  
Kenn was a faithful member of St. John Lutheran Church. He loved woodworking and was very proud of building much of his own home. He enjoyed his flower gardens and spending time with his family. Kenn was very friendly and outgoing, and was always willing to help others in need. He was a loving and caring husband, father and grandfather, and will be missed by his family and many good friends.
  
Kenn is survived by his loving wife Cindy Sawmiller of Defiance, his daughter, Emily (Benjamin) Harju of Pinckney, MI, his son, Samuel E. (Melissa) Sawmiller of Cleveland, OH, and five grandchildren; Evelyn, Dominic and Leo Harju, Moira and Samuel R. Sawmiller. He also leaves his sisters, Gwen Imwalle of St. Mary's, OH,  Penny (Gerald) Gerber of Mt. Vernon, IA, and Diane Method of Buckland, OH, and his brother, Lynn (Cindy) Sawmiller of St. Mary's, OH. 
  
He was preceded in death by his parents, William and Doris Sawmiller. 
  
Visitation will be held on Wednesday, April 26, 2023 from 2-4 pm and 6-8 pm at Schaffer Funeral Home in Defiance. A funeral service will be held on Thursday, April 27, 2023 at 11:00 am at St. John Lutheran Church, with visitation one hour prior to the service.  Pastor Kurt Mews will be officiating. Burial will follow the service at St. Mark Cemetery, with graveside military rites accorded by Defiance VFW Post #3360.  
  
Memorials are suggested to St. John Lutheran Church, or CHP Defiance Hospice. Online condolences can be given at www.Schafferfh.com

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