Harold K. "Sandy" Sanders

Harold K. ‘Sandy’ Sanders, age 96 of Renton, passed away Wed. March 7, 2012. He was born to George and Annie Sanders on October 21, 1915 in Grafton, ND, the 3rd son of 7 children. He enlisted in the Navy in 1937, serving on the USS West Virginia, traversing the Panama Canal; Inchon, Korea; Kodiak, AK; various duty stations in CA and HI; finally training recruits in San Diego. During this time he met and married Mary Peugh in Yuma, AZ, and they had a daughter. He retired in 1957, settling in San Diego. He became a vending machine repairman, which fit him well since he loved to tinker and fix things. Sandy loved a good time with family and friends, and he loved to golf.

In 1967 he moved his family to Washington State, where he enjoyed salmon fishing, especially out of Seiku. He loved spending time with his grandsons, watching them grow up. He was widowed in 1998. After living with his daughter for 5 years, in May 2011 he settled into HoneyDew-Golden Age Adult Family Home in Renton. He loved the people there, and they loved him. He could not have been happier and was there until his dying day, as he wished.

He was extremely proud of his service in the Navy. It made his day when a complete stranger would come and shake his hand and thank him for his service. He was truly humbled and grateful for the recognition.

He is survived by his sister, Elva Stockton of Napa, CA; daughter Sue Keefe of Edmonds, WA; grandsons James and Shawn Keefe of Lake Tapps, WA; many loving family and friends from New York to San Diego, including those from the Bonney Lake, Sumner, and Renton Senior Centers.

In his memory, next time you see a military veteran, Thank him/her for their service. It’s a priceless gift.