Robert Myrlin Sawvel

Robert “Bob” Myrlin Sawvel, a National Ignition Facility employee, died Jan. 16. He was 58.

Sawvel was born Oct. 5, 1952 in Culver City, Calif. He supported NIF’s Neutron Imaging and LIFE projects and had previously supported various projects within Global Security. He made many contributions to the Laboratory since his hire in 1998. He also worked as a field engineer for Bendix/Allied Signal for 15 years prior to joining LLNL.

Sawvel was a devoted father, a passionate enthusiast of Harley Davidson motorcycles, a loyal friend, and a loving son. His warm smile and playful sense of humor could brighten even the darkest days. He lived in Modesto and was a member of the local H.O.G. chapter.

He is survived by his daughter, April Marie Sawvel of Oakland; his mother, Kathleen Sawvel of Modesto; and his brothers, William Michael Sawvel of Vancouver, Wash., Ronald Dean Sawvel of Chino, Calif., and Albert Sawvel of Tracy.

A memorial service will be held at the Red Wine Hall, 1231 8th St., Modesto, Calif. on Saturday, Jan. 29 at 11a.m.