Jack Russell Sauer

Jack Russell Sauer, aged 74, of Waterford, passed away May 24, 2024 at Lawrence + Memorial Hospital. Jack leaves behind his wife of 44 years, Jan Simons Sauer. Jack was born Nov. 19, 1949 to Dorothy Jack Sauer and Russell Sauer who are deceased.

Jack attended high school in East Hartford and graduated from Rochester Institute of Technology. He created J-Sar Photography Studio in Waterford and was later hired by The New London Day in 1977, where he advanced to the position of chief photographer. His career was halted due to a devastating airplane accident in 1981. and The Day retained him as an employee throughout his rehabilitation. He eventually returned as a part-time photographer, retiring in 2002. Jack continued his passion for photography, working as a freelance photographer for the AP News. He coached rowing at the U.S. Coast Guard Academy, local schools and rowing clubs.

Jack was an avid outdoorsman and had a true appreciation for the beauty of nature. He enjoyed sailing, rowing, cycling, and hiking in the woods with his faithful golden retriever, Bailey. Most mornings he could be found rowing with the Niantic River Sculling Warthogs. He spent his quiet time tinkering with his elaborate model train layout.

Jack is survived by his step-daughter Melanie Pipping, RN; and son Russell Sauer (JoAnn); granddaughter Aimee Delacruz; and her sons, Isaac and Lucas Delacruz; and granddaughter Maggie Smith; as well as nieces, Julia Simons Reinhardt and Elizabeth Simons Murdoch. He will be dearly missed by his family and many friends he made along his journey.

A Celebration of Jack's Life will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, June 8, on the beach at Bayside Beach Association (2 Bayside Avenue, Waterford); "Jack Casual" attire is encouraged.

The family thanks the staff at Lawrence + Memorial Hospital for their kind and supportive care. Memorial donations may be made to Lawrence + Memorial Hospital, 365 Montauk Avenue, New London, Ct, 06320. Donations will be designated to the ICU, or to Connecticut Humane Society at 701 Russell Road, Newington, CT 06111.

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