Richard Henry Sandnes

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Richard Henry Sandnes, a man of infinite drive and generosity. Richard was born on December 17, 1933, and transitioned out of this life on October 3, 2026. Through his journey of 92 years, he touched many lives with his wisdom, humor and an unwavering spirit of perseverance.

Richard was born to Henry and Margaret Sandnes. He was the oldest of his siblings and had many cousins and friends to explore the Minnesota projects with. Once he turned 17, he left Minnesota with a good friend and drove until their car broke down in Kansas. There he started his career in the restaurant business at a local drive thru. He met his first wife, Mary Ann, and had two sons, Richard Jr and Robert. Richard eventually made his way to the sunny state of California. In the year of 1960, he married Marian and together the Sandnes family grew with the addition of four children; Robin, Mark, Mike and Matt. Richard worked for Corporate IHOP and the family moved from the west coast to the east coast. There he met Rod “Mac” MacPherson and together they established Mr. Stax Inc in 1977. They decided to move back to California and stay for good. Richard had many hobbies over the years. He and Marian had a ranch and raised race and show horses. He learned to play golf and traveled by motorhome cross country to play at many courses with friends. Later, he and Marian would travel the world with friends. He even visited a town called Sandnes in Norway.

Richard accomplished many things, but one of his greatest achievements was giving back to his community. Richard and Marian moved to Santa Clarita in 1985 and it didn’t take them long to become involved with many clubs and organizations. From making floats in the 4th of July parade to hosting BBQ’s and becoming a trustee at the Elks Lodge, Richard impacted many people throughout the community. In addition to opening their home he graciously opened up his heart to the town. He started the Michael “Mike” Sandnes Scholarship at College of the Canyons to honor his late son. He became a board member at the SCV Boys and Girls Club and established the Great Futures Breakfast fundraiser. He was active in supporting Carousel Ranch and The Canyon Theatre Guild among other organizations. He also believed in the local hospital and generously helped the new patient tower efforts. In 2012, Richard and Marian were awarded the prestigious Silver Spur Community Service Award from College of the Canyons. He was also nominated for SCV Man of the Year in 2020.

Richard leaves behind a legacy not many can accomplish. He started from the ground up, not only archiving the American Dream through his hard work and determination. He encouraged and supported many around him to reach for their dreams too. Richard is survived by his wife, Marian, his children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and a community that loved him as much as he loved them.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to some of Richard’s favorite charities: Carousel Ranch, Henry Mayo Newhall Hospital Foundation, SCV Boys and Girls club.

Celebration of life will be on November 14, 2026 11:30am -2:30pm

SCV Boys and Girls Club – Newhall

24909 Newhall Avenue

Newhall, CA 91321