Donald G. Sauer

Donald G. Sauer of Harwinton, Connecticut passed away on December 10, 2025 after a brief illness. He is survived by his wife of sixty-six years, Eleanor Barbieri Sauer; his daughters, Donna J. Sauer and Jill Sauer Gavalis; his son-in-law, Paul D. Gavalis; and his beloved granddaughter, Natalie Sauer Gavalis, all of West Hartford. He is also survived by his “baby” sister, Joan Sauer Hauser, and her husband, John Hauser, of Agawam, Massachusetts, as well as many nieces and nephews. Don was predeceased by his parents, Robert and Emily Strobel Sauer and his siblings Marjorie Sauer Bell, Robert Sauer and Gladys Sauer Hardy.

Born on July 27, 1934, Don spent his childhood in Hazardville, Connecticut, graduating from Enfield High School in 1952. He then enlisted in the Army spending three years in Okinawa, Japan during the Korean War. Upon his return, Don studied trumpet at Hartt School of Music and later attended Sacred Heart University. Don’s sister Joan introduced him to the love of his life, Eleanor, whom he married in 1959. A stalwart family man, Don welcomed the births of their two daughters and remained a steadfast, devoted and loving father. The birth of his granddaughter, Natalie, in 2004 brought Don immeasurable joy and happiness. Being her grandfather was a highlight of his life. Don derived considerable pleasure spending time with his family, particularly warm days spent by the pool.

Don worked as a mechanical engineer and inventor in the field of plastics, earning numerous patents for his original machine designs and packaging processes, until his retirement from the Silgan Containers Corporation in 2002. Don was a true renaissance man known for his many talents. An accomplished trumpet player and woodworker, Don delighted those around him with his creativity. He could play just about any song he heard by ear and was able to build, repair or reinvent virtually anything. Don’s kind, generous spirit and sense of humor were felt by all those who knew him.

A memorial service will be held to celebrate Don’s life on December 20, 2025, at 11:30AM at The Shrine of Lourdes in Litchfield, 50 Montfort Road in Litchfield, Connecticut.

Donations may be made in Don’s name to The Shrine of Lourdes in Litchfield 83 Montfort Road Litchfield, Connecticut 06759.