Kenneth R. Sander, 84, of Melrose Park, died peacefully with his wife at his side on December 9, 2021.
Ken was born in Chicago on July 18, 1937, to parents Raymond and Margaret (nee Reeder) Sander. Ken was a proud veteran of the United States Army. He married Judy Cowger in 1964 and together they raised their three children. Ken and Judy loved to travel together, and Ken was known to strike up a conversation with anyone and everyone. He worked for the Northwestern/Union Pacific railroad for most of his career until he retired at 62. He was very active and loved to spend time swimming. He enjoyed attending flea markets with his brother. He loved his chocolate lab Tucson and working outside in his vegetable garden. He was a devoted husband and caring dad who will be missed by all who knew him.
Ken is survived by his beloved wife of 57 years, Judy Sander, his sons, Mike (Katie) Sander and David (Tammy) Sander, and his grandchildren, George, Clare, Rosie, Nora, and Eli.
He was preceded in death by his daughter, Cathy Zelazo, and his brother, Don (Sharon) Sander.
In lieu of flowers, memorials in Ken’s name can be made to the American Cancer Society https://www.cancer.org/
Visitation for Ken will be Sunday, December 19, 2021. from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. at DeFiore Funeral Home, 10763 Dundee Road, Huntley.
Inurnment will be Monday, December 20, 2021, at 10 a.m. at Mt. Emblem Cemetery, 520 E Grand Ave, Elmhurst.
For further information please call the funeral home at 847-515-8772 or online condolences may be directed to www.defiorefuneral.com
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So sorry for your loss you are in our thoughts and prayers
Our deepest condolences on Kens passing. We will miss him very much. Thinking of your entire family during this difficult time. Cherie
So sorry to hear of Ken 's passing. My prayers and thoughts are with you and your family. Myrle passed almost 3 years ago. Pray God will strengthen everyone. Love you, Janet
David, So sorry for your loss. My prayers and condolences to you and your family. Fond memories of your Dad. Yes, he was an outgoing and talkative person just like my Mother. He will be missed.
I am Ken and Don Sander's cousin, Susan, my heart is broken that these two wonderful men were called home! They always said they loved me at the end of a conversation on the phone as I live in FL. I was born and raised in IL and from a little girl to adult we were all together at family get togethers. My deepest prayers go to Judy and Sharon losing the love of their lives so close together. I heard that Ken drove Elvis around the Army base as Ken was stationed in Germany at the same time! Rest in peace and I was so blessed to have you both in my life. The last time Ken and I talked he had Hawaiian music playing for me as I lived in HI, then had it turned down so we could hear each other. Rest in peace and love you both so much! God Bless!
David and family - my sincere condolences on the loss of your father. May the many wonderful memories that you have of your dad bring you peace and comfort as you grieve. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
So sorry for your loss you are in our thoughts and prayers