Madeline C. Sawaya

Madeline Sawaya passed away peacefully on Tuesday, July 3, 2018, surrounded by loved ones. Madeline was born to parents Michael and Roshaade Malouf on September 6, 1921 in the backseat of a taxicab in Los Angeles, California. She grew up with three sisters, and was the valedictorian of her graduating high school class in Evanston, Wyoming. The following year on July 7, 1940, she married Michael (Mike) Sawaya, her beloved husband of 59 years. 

Madeline and Mike lived for many years in Pocatello and Twin Falls, Idaho, where Mike worked in the Postal Service. While raising their three kids, Madeline earned over 3,000 hours as a volunteer in the hospital auxiliary. She had a love for Lebanese cooking, reading, sewing, and playing bridge with friends. Above all, Madeline's greatest enjoyment was spending time with her family. 

She is preceded in death by parents, her husband, and her sisters Rosaline Attey and Josephine Drazich.

Madeline is survived by her younger sister, Edna Holman; her children: Dr. Michael P. Sawaya Jr. of Las Vegas, Nevada, Carolyn and Tom Hopkins, of Millcreek, Utah, and Diane and Scott Brown, also of Millcreek, Utah; ten grandchildren, 2 step-grandchildren, and ten (soon to be 11) great-grandchildren; and a large extended family whom she loved dearly. Madeline took great pride that all ten of her grandchildren were college graduates. Her grandchildren cherish the memories of their Nana's homemade Christmas ornaments, chocolate chip cookies, and greeting cards. 

A celebration of her life will be held on Saturday, July 7th from 11:30-1:30 at Starks Funeral Parlor, 3651 South 900 East, Salt Lake City.  Guests are encouraged to use the complimentary valet parking provided at the north side of the building.

In lieu of flowers please make donations to your favorite charity in Madeline's name.