Gary Dale Sanders

Graveside Service
1PM, Saturday, September 26, 2020
Moravian Cemetery, West Salem, IL

Gary Dale Sanders, age 73 of West Salem, IL passed unexpectedly from this life to the next on Saturday, September 19, 2020 doing what he absolutely loved the best: attending an auction sale.
Gary was born on July 3, 1947 in the office of Dr. Morris; which was located at that time, in Mt. Carmel, IL His parents, Ernest and Majaska (Riggs) Sanders knew from his arrival in the Drs office (instead of the hospital), that Gary would be “one of a kind” and they were correct in their assessment!
Gary Sanders never knew a stranger and knew how to make everyone in the room feel as if they were important; because, to Gary, they were.
He married Karen Spurling on September 6, 1969 at Pleasant Grove Church and they were partners for almost 50 years, until Karen passed on August 16, 2019.
Gary and Karen welcomed two daughters to their home, who brought much fulfillment to their lives. Later there were 7 grandchildren who added to the fun. They all are left with many memories to cherish. Pamela (David) Schwarzlose of West Salem, IL Lisa (Randy) Hancock of Noble, IL and the grands: Joshua, Jacey and Jayla Schwarzlose, Rhett Hancock, Jordan and Jaden Schwarzlose and Gracelyn Hancock. Also left with memories from their growing up years and beyond are sisters: Mary Tinsley of Mt Carmel, IL , Sue (Levain “Andy”) Anderson of Baudette, MN and a sister-in-law, Becky Dicus of Lancaster, IL, three brothers: James (Kay) Sanders of Marshall, TX, David (Joyce) Sanders of Willow, AK and Mark Sanders of Mt. Carmel, IL. Gary also leaves many loved nieces, nephews and their families and many friends.
Gary was preceded in death by his parents, his wife and one sister, Helen Hulfachor-Hall.
Gary worked at Champion Laboratories for 43 years. He enjoyed various hobbies, such as: hunting, fishing, watching hummingbirds, bowling, eating out, spending time with family and friends, taking pictures (a lot of pictures!) and was a proud supporter of the Arkansas Razorbacks and the St. Louis Cardinals.
Gary was a member of the Zion United Methodist Church of West Salem and also served on the West Salem Volunteer Fire Department for many years.
A Graveside Service to honor the life and memory of Gary Sanders will be held at 1PM on Saturday, September 26, 2020 at the Moravian Cemetery in West Salem. Following the service there will be opportunity for viewing and paying final respects. A Memorial Service will be held at a later date.
Memorials are encouraged to the Zion United Methodist Church and the Volunteer Firemen’s Association of West Salem.
Fond memories and condolences may be left for the family at www.meridithfuneralhome.com
Ingram-Meridith Funeral Home of West Salem is honored to be entrusted with the arrangements.