Michael Ray Sanford

Michael Ray Sanford passed away on April 22, 2025 at the age of 72. He was born in Hastings, Nebraska on April 15th, 1953. Michael graduated from Hastings High School in 1971. Michael married Joy Christensen on June 8th, 1974.He was preceded in death by his father, Raymond Sanford and his mother-in-law Clarice Christensen.

Michael is survived by his wife Joy, children Logan Sanford and Drace (Sarah) Sanford. Grandsons Vaughn Sanford and Dane Sanford. Sister Joni (Steve) Katzberg and brother Greg (Jody) Sanford. Mother Doris Sanford and father-in-law Vaughn Christensen. Brother-in-law Scott (Linda) Christensen and sister-in-law Jill (Phil) Sibole and numerous nieces and nephews.

Michael began his career working for Payless Cashway Lumber company in Tempe, Arizona. In 1979, he was transferred to Humble, Texas, where he opened a new store and became a manager. He changed industries and started working for Bert Wheelers Liquor in 1982. In 1987, Michael embarked on his career working with Spec’s Wine, Spirits & Finer Foods. He worked as the VP of Construction and Development until his retirement in 2022 due to his illness.

Michael had an unbelievable work ethic and ability to absorb information. He was a great boss and co-worker; his team was extended family. He was kind, gentle, and fun to be around. He was an avid sports fan and enjoyed following the Astros, Oilers (Luv Ya Blue), Texans, Rockets, Cougars, Aggies, and of course the Nebraska Cornhuskers. He was very knowledgeable in trivia, particularly sports and history. When playing games, he was the guy you wanted on your team. Michael loved golf, offshore fishing, bird watching, and was fond of cows. He loved the beach, the sun on his back, and the sand between his toes. He enjoyed coaching Drace’s baseball teams for many years. He was quite the handyman, able to fix just about anything around the house. The family enjoyed their time at their bay house in Bayou Vista, Texas. He would take Logan to the bay house quite often and enjoyed their time together. He adored his two grandsons. Michael was able to go on great work trips to Europe, Chile, Argentina, Ireland, and more. He loved to travel and experience different cultures, foods, and beverages. Mike and Joy had plans to travel after retirement, unfortunately, he was diagnosed with Dementia in 2020 and Parkinsons in 2021. Michael has been in memory care since August of 2022.

A special thanks to Michael’s caregivers at Harmony Memory Care and Sycamore Creek Ranch Memory Care. The family would also like to thank the outstanding staff at Bayou City Hospice.

The Sanford family would appreciate donations made to Logan Sanford Living Fund in lieu of flowers, https://www.gofundme.com/f/aid-logans-growth-in-a-caring-community

A memorial service for Michael will be held Saturday, May 10, 2025 from 10:30 AM to 11:30 AM at Forest Park The Woodlands Funeral Home & Cemetery, 18000 Interstate 45 S, The Woodlands, TX 77384, followed by a reception from 11:30 AM to 1:00 PM.

Following the reception, there will be a continued celebration of life at 12010 Oak Crest Ct, Conroe, TX 77385.