Obituary of Robert Eugene Sanders

Robert Eugene "Bob" Sanders passed on to be with his Lord in heaven on January 9, 2013, one day before he would have celebrated his 55th wedding anniversary with his "sweetheart" Jackie Sanders. He was 79 years old and the patriarch of his family. Of all the things he was, he was first and foremost, a loving husband, father, grandfather, uncle, brother, and friend. A true family man in every sense of the word. He was born on January 22, 1933 in Ranger, Arkansas, but moved to Northern California at an early age where he was raised, primarily in Eureka. Bob was a Boy Scout and reached the rank of Eagle Scout. In 1947 when he was 14 years old, he traveled with the Boy Scouts by ship across the Atlantic to the world jamboree and toured Belgium, France, and Holland. At Eureka high School, "Home of the Loggers", he was a standout football player and track champion (440 yards). He played the viola, and was a member of the state of California's honor orchestra. An outstanding academic, athlete, and musician, he received an appointment to the U.S. Naval Academy. He was unable to attend due to unavoidable circumstances, but never the less spent 8 years in the naval reserve. After high school, Bob began his beloved duties of being a father and husband, and started a career with PG&E. Eventually he had a job transfer and moved his family to Santa Cruz in 1974. This move included the relocation of his mother, mother-in-law and father-in-law for whom he purchased homes so the family could remain intact. After 36 years of devoted service, he retired from PG&E as a field supervisor and began a twenty plus year career as a real estate agent in Santa Cruz County. Bob had many interests. He loved going to his children's and grandchildren's sporting events when they attended Santa Cruz and Harbor High, Ukiah High School, Cal Poly SLO, Chico State, Oregon State, and UCLA. He had a real eye for taking that action photo. Photography was something he enjoyed along with gardening, home improvement projects, carpentry and masonry. He remodeled his and his children's and grandchildren's home many times over the years. He was "happy as a clam at high tide" when he was swinging the hammer or mixing cement. He was an avid hunter and fisherman, taking his family on hunting and fishing trips throughout the west coast, including Alaska. His sons are especially thankful to him for teaching them the "art of hunting." Many a salmon were enjoyed at family BBQ's thanks to his angling skills. Bob loved to travel the world. One of his fondest trips was a true road adventure, a motorhome journey from Santa Cruz to Fairbanks, Alaska along the Alcan Highway in 1979. Six weeks of true "bliss" and experiencing the aurora borealis. He coached youth and high school baseball for over 35 years, including a stint at Harbor High. He also officiated high school and college football games for over twenty years. He was also a 49er faithful and hosted an annual Super Bowl party for family and friends. He was also a San Francisco Giant fanatic and went to many Giant's games over the years. Many will remember him for hosting numerous family gatherings at his personally customized home and backyard. Much laughing, and many good times were had by all at the Sanders' residence and Bob always enjoyed delivering a toast to his guests. He belonged to and served several organizations including the United Way, and the Elks and Moose Clubs. He served as a grand juror for the County of Santa Cruz and attended Santa Cruz Bible Church. When his son-in-law tragically passed away, he helped raise and support his grandson's Ryan & Ryder Young. He is survived by his loving wife Jackie Sanders, his children Lark Young, Robin Thompson (William), Bob Sanders (Elizabeth), David Sanders, Cynthia Dutra (Dave), Jeannie Johnson (Tommy), & Bill Bennett; his grandchildren, Ryan Young (Michelle), D.J. Zack, Ryder Young, Jeanine Sanders, Victor Dutra (Sarah), Davey Dutra (Elena), Bobby Sanders, Zeke Sanders (Kate) Elle Sanders, Ross Bennett, Jessica Sanders, Kate Thompson; he is also survived by his dear cousins, Diane Finucane, Frankie DeRossitt, and the Jack McCutcheon family He is preceded in death by his parents, Claud & Suzie Sanders, in laws, Harley & Margaret Watrous and his beloved son-in-law Steve Ryan Young. Bob will be remembered by many as generous, always willing to help, and what many would call a "Man's Man." He is now with his Lord Jesus Christ. Amen. A memorial service will be held Saturday, January 19, 2013 at 1:00 pm at Santa Cruz Bible Church at 440 Frederick St. followed thereafter by his interment at Santa Cruz Memorial Park, 1927 Ocean Street Extension. Contributions can be made to Santa Cruz Little League (attention Andrea 831-419-4991), Hospice of Santa Cruz County ( www.hospicesantacruz.org), or a charity of your choice in Bob's name. If you would like to send your condolences to Bob's family, share your memories, or view and post photos please visit www.pacificgardenschapel.com or at the Santa Cruz Sentinel at www.legacy.com/obituaries/santacruzsentinel.com