Glenn “Benji” Sawyer, 1961–2026, Waltham native who ‘truly loved life and lived it to the fullest’

Glenn W. “Benji” Sawyer, of Hyde Park and formerly of Waltham, passed away peacefully on Thursday, March 12, 2026, at Lahey Clinic Hospital & Medical Center in Burlington, with his loving family by his side after a period of declining health. He was 64.

Born in Boston on April 3, 1961, he was the beloved son of the late Thomas Sawyer and Lillian C. (Turner) Sawyer. Benji was raised, educated and spent most of his life in Waltham before moving to the Hyde Park section of Boston three years ago.

Benji attended Waltham Public Schools and Waltham Vocational High School, where he learned the skills of his trade that would make him one of the very best at what he did. A talented, hardworking, and highly skilled craftsman, he worked throughout his life as a plasterer with W.B. Cameron Construction in Waltham. His dedication to his trade and pride in his work earned him the respect of coworkers and friends alike.

In his younger years, Benji had a deep love for sports and friendly competition. He was an avid bowler who spent many nights at the Wal-Lex bowling lanes, participating in various leagues. He also enjoyed playing softball and shooting pool. When he wasn’t working or playing sports, you could often find him socializing with friends and coworkers at Shoppers Café, a place where his humor and easygoing nature made him a familiar and welcomed presence.

Benji truly loved life and lived it to the fullest. He cherished being around people, sharing stories, telling jokes and making others laugh. Over the past several years, as he faced many medical challenges, Benji turned deeply to his faith and his strong belief in God, which provided him with strength and comfort. Benji will be remembered for his craftsmanship, his loyalty to those he loved, his deep faith, and the laughter he brought into the lives of so many. His presence, humor, and generous spirit will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

He is survived by his loving Wife of 23 years, Gerene “GiGi” Petrucii; his devoted son, Glenn J. Sawyer of Waltham; his cherished grandson, Jacoby Sawyer; his stepdaughter Samantha Goodridge; as well as his beloved niece, Chantel Sawyer of Whitinsville, whom he cherished like a daughter. He also leaves his dear siblings, Charles H. Sawyer of Fall River, Stephen T. Sawyer of Manchester, NH, John M. Sawyer of Nashua, NH, and Gale E. Kingsbury of Whitinsville. Benji was also the cherished uncle of many nieces and nephews, and he is further survived by many great-nieces, great-nephews, extended family members and numerous friends who will miss him dearly.

Family and friends are welcome to gather and celebrate Benji’s life during visiting hours in the Mary Catherine Chapel of Brasco & Sons Memorial, 773 Moody Street, Waltham on Sunday March 22 from 1 p.m. until 4 p.m., followed by a funeral service at 4 p.m.