Wayne Sanders Obituary

Wayne Sanders Wayne Sanders peacefully ended a long courageous battle early on the morning of June the 3rd at his home in Leander. He is survived by the family he dedicated himself to, wife of 46 years, Nelda; daughters, Christi and Kara; granddaughters Ashley, Addie and Chloe; great-grandsons Diego and Dillon; son-in-law Brad; grandson-in-law Yesua; and numerous nieces and nephews. He was the eldest son of Ruth and Harold Sanders and grew up in Fort Worth with his two surviving brothers, Russell and David and lifelong friend, John. Wayne earned his BA from the University of Texas at Arlington, his MBA from the University of North Texas, and retired from Texas Rehabilitation Commission in 1998 after 25 years of service. The family expresses heartfelt gratitude to the University Hospital San Antonio Transplant Team and ICU Staff, especially Julieanne. Thanks also to Lione of Cornerstone Hospital, and our loving home caregivers Filomena and Jordan. Although you always knew where he stood on an issue, this unique, kind and generous man was accepting of all he encountered. In addition to being the family problem solver, his diversity of knowledge served him well in many hobbies. He was a gunsmith, mechanic, engineer, hunter, motorcycle enthusiast, master barbeque chef, Germanfest Nagelshlagen founder, school bus driver, mentor and frustrated farmer. We have become passionate about organ donation due to our multi-year wait on the transplant list. A new journey began for us last August when a selfless family chose to "donate life." Unfortunately that gift came a little too late for Wayne to overcome the many complications endured while praying for that gift. In lieu of flowers and due to our recent awareness, please consider www. DonateLifeTexas.org and Hospice Austin for donations and information. Per Wayne's request there will be a gathering at the Sanders' home on the evening of June 13th to share stories and enjoy the views in the setting that provided him spiritual strength. Please call 512-267-3813 for additional information and directions.

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Published by Austin American-Statesman on Jun. 7, 2009.

Memories and Condolences
for Wayne Sanders

6 Entries

Charlie & Linda Williams

July 7, 2009

Nelda, Charlie and I wanted you to know that you and the girls are in our thoughts and prayers. We have fond memories of the times we all had at the Christmas parties through the years, and Wayne's blessings on the food and all the talk around the tables. We were sorry we could not make the party, but wanted you to know we love you!

June 12, 2009

Nelda & girls, as I blubbered on the answering machine I could hear Wayne's voice in my head and see that smile that I looked forward to each morning as I drove to work. He, along w/ your entire family touched my heart more than I can express. My job can be so full of joy when I have patients and families such as this!!!! I loved Wayne dearly, even when I would listen to him hollar and then go take his speaking valve away from him just for 10 min. quiet! So many funny and warm memories! I look forward to seeing you all on Saturday.
Much love, Julieanne

David & Judy Tobey

June 10, 2009

A wonderful man, great neighbor and good friend.

Teri Elliott Bistritz

June 10, 2009

I was very saddened to hear of Wayne's passing. I lived across the street from the Sanders as a child. I have nothing but good memories of a fun man. I am sorry for your loss.

Randee Malmsten

June 9, 2009

I had the opportunity to work with Wayne at the Texas Rehabilitation Commission. I worked on the 'administrative side' of TRC. Wayne's experience and insight about the delivery of services to Texans with disabilities helped me do my job better in support of TRC's mission.

I appreciated Wayne's candor and humor and respected his thoughtful opinions. I also remember him as 'bigger than life' because of his boundless energy and interests.

I am sorry for your loss.

Roger Ward

June 7, 2009

I am saddened to hear of Wayne's passing. He and I had a great time agreeing and disagreeing with each other (a lot of times the latter) and then working together to make things happen at the Texas Rehabilitation Commission.

His intelligence, ideas and debate made me a better thinker and helped make me a tad more humble. It started in New Counselor Orientation where we met, and our debates never stopped. We both could turn red and purple while we were "discussing", but because of his quick wit and ability to laugh at himself, we laughed a lot together.

The people of Texas were better served because of the way he shared his reasoning, the way he entered into interactions as a partner and, most of all, his dedication coupled with the tremendous energy he put into improving the lives of people with disabilities.

My condolences to all of his friends and family. I know he will be missed.

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