William W. Sanders

Surrounded by his loving family, William W. Sanders, age 89, passed away Wednesday, June 16, 2010, at his residence. William was born in Racine, March 22, 1921, son of the late Edward and Verna (Nee: Frechette) Sanders.

During World War II William proudly served in the United States Air Force as a Lieutenant Colonel.  After active duty he served in the Air Force Reserves for twenty years.  In March 1947 he was united in marriage to Violet Miller at St. Rita Catholic Church where he had been a lifelong member.    He owned and operated Sanders Paint and Wallpaper Company with his family.  Above all William devoted his life to his family, doted on his grandchildren, and had a great love for his pets.  He will be deeply missed.

Survivors include his loving wife of 63 years, Violet “The Old Sea Hag;” his children, Bernie Sanders, Bobbie Wahlen, Barry (Nancy) Sanders, Buddy (Kim) Sanders, Brett Sanders;  8 grandchildren; 7 great-grandchildren; sisters, Pat (John) Mueller, Shirley Miller; brother-in-law, Robert (Joan) Miller; sister-in-law, Mavis Sanders; nieces, nephews, other relatives and many dear friends.  In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by his son, Billy; and brothers, Eddie and Jack Sanders.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Sunday, June 20, 2010, at 3 p.m. at St. Rita Catholic Church, 4339 Douglas Ave., with Rev. Joseph G. Stobba OSA officiating.  Entombment with full military honors will be held at Holy Cross Garden Mausoleum, Hwy 32.  Relatives and friends may meet with the family Sunday at the church from 1:30 p.m. until time of Mass at 3 p.m.  In lieu of flowers, memorials to the Jamie Miller Benefit have been suggested.

Special thanks to Jackie, Julie and Mike at Hospice Alliance.

MARESH-MEREDITH & ACKLAM FUNERAL HOME
803 Main St., Racine   (262) 634-7888