Town resident Stuart Sawabini, a dedicated community volunteer who helped guide the renovation and expansion of the New Canaan Police Department and led efforts to improve communications for emergency responders, has died, officials say.
Stuart Sawabini
NCPD announced Sawabini’s passing Thursday in a press release issued by Chief John DiFederico.
A Police Commission member from 2005 to 2018, Sawabini “brought extensive and valuable experience to the department through his service on the town’s Emergency Preparedness Committee, the Community Emergency Response Team, and his deep expertise in information technology,” DiFederico said in the press release.
The chief noted that Sawabini “was a strong advocate for improving radio coverage throughout New Canaan.”
“He spearheaded a project that significantly enhanced communication capabilities across the town—an achievement that continues to benefit public safety operations today,” DiFederico said. “He was also a strong proponent of a new police headquarters, providing insightful feedback and technical knowledge that proved invaluable to planning and development efforts.”
Sawabini’s “dedication, selflessness, and commitment to public safety exemplified the very best in civic leadership,” the press release said.
Police Commissioners at the May 20, 2014 meeting, L-R: Paul Foley, Chairman Stuart Sawabini and Secretary Sperry DeCew. Credit: Michael Dinan
It continued: “Stuart’s commitment to public service and his dedication to improving our department’s capabilities left an enduring legacy. His vision and expertise made a lasting difference in how we serve our community.”
The Police Department “is deeply grateful for Commissioner Sawabini’s service, selflessness, and willingness to share his time and knowledge,” DiFederico said. “His leadership and contributions have left an indelible mark on both the department and the community. Our thoughts and heartfelt condolences are with his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of working alongside him.”
What a huge loss to our community! I knew Stu through weekly community coffees held at the New Canaan Historical Society. Not only was he a kind dedicated public servant but he was a wonderful and caring person whose vision and civic service touched so many lives.
Stu’s countless hours of volunteering for CERT, the New Canaan Police Commission, and his drafting an Emergency Preparedness Plan for New Canaan enhanced public safety for all of us.
I propose that we keep Stu Sawabini’s legacy alive with a memorial plaque, dedicating a bench, or perhaps naming a CERT training room in his honor.
Sincere condolences to his family and all who knew him.
This is incredibly sad news. A life well lived cut too short. We are grateful to all the contributions Stuart Sawabini made to our community and send our deepest condolences.
Stuart Sawabini was the consummate New Canaan public servant, combining an incredible work ethic with generosity, class, and kindness. He will be greatly missed.
This is truly saddening news.
Stu was the Executive Director of CERT, when I joined. He was an excellent mentor and heavily involved in the Certification Training of CERT members.
It was a blustery February, with sleet and snow on the ground, when I was notified of my first CERT deployment. Arriving early at the designated location, CERT volunteers received their assignments, which involved working in pairs.
I had the privilege of partnering with Stu for two days, to perform road assessments of damaged utility poles throughout New Canaan. While in the car, Stu’s many stories were an inspiration for me to achieve his high standard of training and operations in our CERT program. Throughout our long drive, we focused on the damage assessment report as colleagues. However, talking with Stu felt more like talking with an old friend.
The success of New Canaan’s CERT program stands as a testament to Stu’s commitment and vision. His untimely passing leaves an emptiness in the hearts of many New Canaan residents and colleagues, including myself.
I concur with the idea of honoring Stu Sawabini’s legacy.