Sharon Kay Sanders

Sharon Kay Sanders, 86, of Spokane Valley, Washington, passed away peacefully on Wednesday February 11, 2026, surrounded by her family at her residence at Evergreen Fountains. Sharon was born on July 20, 1939, in Belmond, Iowa, the beloved daughter of Lyle and Velma (Dolly) Fischer, and stepmom (and bonus grandmother), Helen Fischer.
Sharon spent her early years in Meservey Iowa before her family moved to Carmichael, California, in the 1950s. It was there that she met her future husband, Hubert "Sandy" Sanders. They married on December 24, 1956, and began a partnership that would take her across the country and shape much of her life.
As the wife of a U.S. Marine, Sharon traveled and lived in homes and base housing throughout California. She embraced each new home with resilience and grace, creating stability and warmth for her growing family.
Sharon and her family moved to Troy, Idaho in 1970, when Sandy was selected to serve as an ROTC instructor at the University of Idaho. Following his passing in 1990, Sharon relocated to Spokane, Washington, to be closer to her children and grandchildren, where she remained for the rest of her life.
Sharon was known for her strength, independence, and the deep love she held for her family. She lived her life with quiet determination and a generous spirit, offering support, and steady presence to those around her. Her resilience and warmth shaped the lives of everyone who knew her.
A lifelong gardener, Sharon created beauty wherever she lived. She grew abundant vegetable gardens and tended a yard filled with flowering plants that welcomed songbirds each season. Her gardens were not only a source of pride but a reflection of her patience, care, and connection to the natural world.
Sharon is survived by her five children: Pamela (Sanders) Dorion and her husband Dave Dorion; Michael and Patti (Miller) Sanders of Spokane, Washington; Gordon Sanders of Anchorage, Alaska; Robert and Debbie (Bull) Sanders of Spokane Valley, Washington; and Julie Sanders of Spokane Valley, Washington. She is also survived by her siblings: Eugene Fischer of Citrus Heights, California; Melvin "Nip" Fischer of Mount Vernon, Washington; and Manetta "Toots" Shoerner of Sheboygan, Wisconsin. Sharon is also survived by 6 grandchildren, and 5 great grandchildren.
Sharon was preceded in death by her parents, Lyle and Velma (Dolly) Fischer; her stepmother, Helen Fischer; her sister, Pat (Frey) Fisher; granddaughter Michelle Sanders; and her husband, Hubert "Sandy" Sanders.
At Sharon's request, there will be no service. The family appreciates your love and support during this time. If you wish, in lieu of flowers, donations may be made to U.S. Marine Corps Toys for Tots to continue Sharon's legacy of supporting children and families in need.